South Island Regional Cup

The South Island Schools Rugby Championship is the deciding fixture that determines the top school team in the South Island of New Zealand. Rather than a full tournament, the championship is contested in a single playoff between the winners of the Canterbury Schools Premiership and the Otago Schools Championship.

Played in late August each year, the match serves as the southern qualifier for the New Zealand Top 4 National Championship, where the winner represents the entire South Island. The fixture is known for its intensity and tradition, often featuring powerhouse programs such as Christchurch Boys’ High School, Otago Boys’ High School, and St Bede’s College.

The South Island Championship remains one of the most prestigious matches in New Zealand school rugby, symbolising regional pride and the pathway to national honours.