Ponga inspires Kiwis into first final in 13 years

New Zealand are through to the Rugby League World Cup final for the first time since 2013 after a storm-lashed 34-10 semi-final win over Tonga in Newcastle on Saturday. Fullback Kalyn Ponga, back just three weeks after breaking his left forearm in the tournament opener against Australia, set up three of the Kiwis' six tries and produced a try-saving tackle when Tonga threatened to take control.

Ponga released second-rower Briton Nikora for the opening try inside four minutes. But Tonga, roared on by a large travelling support at McDonald Jones Stadium, hit back through two tries from winger Jojo Fifita, the first a sweeping length-of-the-field move, to lead 10-6 after 32 minutes.

Second-half surge seals it

New Zealand levelled before the break when centre Dane Gagai grounded a Jahrome Hughes kick that Tonga fullback Lehi Hopoate could not deal with. Jamayne Isaako's conversion gave the Kiwis a 12-10 half-time lead, just as strong wind and heavy rain swept across the ground.

The Kiwis used the wind after the restart. Tries from Casey McLean and Hughes within five minutes stretched the lead to 24-10, before Xavier Willison crashed over in the 70th minute and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad finished the scoring on the final hooter. Isaako landed five goals from six attempts.

Tonga halfback Isaiya Katoa refused to blame the conditions, instead praising the Tongan fans who had lit up the tournament. New Zealand's only injury worry is prop Naufahu Whyte, who left with an ankle problem early in the second half.

Brisbane decider awaits

New Zealand, world champions in 2008, will play the final in Brisbane next Sunday, 15 November, against the winners of Sunday's second semi-final between reigning champions Australia and Samoa in Sydney.

[Source: Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/sports/rugby-league-ponga-returns-help-new-zealand-beat-tonga-reach-world-cup-final-2026-11-07/) | [Source: NRL.com](https://www.nrl.com/news/2026/11/07/kiwis-bluster-past-tonga-to-set-up-world-cup-final-spot/)