The inaugural Howden British & Irish Lions Women’s Series will see the Lions travel the length of Aotearoa New Zealand in September 2027, with fixture dates, opponents, host cities and venues now confirmed. The historic Tour will kick off in Whangārei on 4 September, before moving through Auckland, Hamilton and Wellington, and concluding with the final Test against the Black Ferns on 25 September at the new One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch. In total, fans will be able to experience matches across five iconic rugby venues, with more than 124,000 supporters expected to enjoy the action in person.
Across the month-long Tour, the Lions will face a blend of elite opposition, beginning with the Black Ferns XV in Whangārei, followed by the first Test against the Black Ferns in Auckland. A midweek clash against an Invitational XV in Hamilton adds a unique challenge before the squad travels to Wellington for the second Test, ahead of the highly anticipated final showdown in Christchurch. Kick-off times for all fixtures will be confirmed later this year.
Designed collaboratively by New Zealand Rugby and The British & Irish Lions, the Tour offers fans and players a chance to experience the best of New Zealand, from the North Island to the South. With world-class venues, diverse host cities and a historic first Women’s Lions team taking the field, the 2027 Series promises an unforgettable celebration of international rugby. Further details, including a special Pre‑Tour fixture, will be announced in the coming months.
Saturday 4 September – Whangārei, Semenoff Stadium, v Black Ferns XV
Saturday 11 September – Auckland, Go Media Mt Smart Stadium, v Black Ferns
Tuesday 14 September – Hamilton, FMG Stadium Waikato, v Invitational XV
Saturday 18 September – Wellington, Sky Stadium, v Black Ferns
Saturday 25 September – Christchurch, One NZ Stadium, v Black Ferns