Auckland win the Air New Zealand Cup to join the Ranfurly Shield as they cap their unbeaten season in yet more poring rain. It was not so easy this week as Wellington contested all the way. Probably the major plus was playing into the wind in the first half Auckland dominated territory and possession and scored two tries through Jay Williams and Isa Nacewa, both converted by Nacewa going in 14-8 up at half time.

With the wind in the second half Auckland did not have it all their own way, but did enough to keep their noses in front. The pivotal moment was the sin binning of Troy Flavell when they upped the anti and even scored points through a penalty. In the last quarter they stretched out to more than a score difference and although Wellington pressed they could not break the Auckland line. Final score 23-14 Well done Auckland.