Fast-paced, high-quality, and hugely sociable both on and off the field, the Southern Alps Ultra U85KG Competition is back for 2026!

The weight-restricted grade is a key part of Canterbury Rugby’s strategy to keep players involved in the game. It provides a competitive yet social alternative to Premier rugby. Designed with inclusivity and skill in mind, it caters to former players keen to return, as well as those seeking a less physically punishing version of the game—where evenly matched teams put skill, speed, and smarts ahead of size.

The 2026 season features five club teams, each with their own unique identity: the Burnside Badgers, Sydenham Crazy 88’s, UC Black Mambas, West Melton Moa’s, and defending champions, the New Brighton Speedy’s. This Saturday, all five sides kick off their campaigns in a full festival-style opening round at Sydenham. The gala day will feature a hearty BBQ, a well-stocked chilly bin, and a Barbarians invitational side filling the sixth slot—ensuring every team gets a run in Round 1.

Managing Director of Moa Brewing, Stephen Smith, spoke about his experience with the grade in Auckland, which helped spark their support here in Canterbury:
“These teams became the lifeblood of some clubs—it’s exciting, and they’re keeping the social side of rugby alive. There were often more people watching U85kg than Prems.”

Eager to see continued growth, Smith is passionate about helping clubs recognise not only the commercial benefits of entering a team, but also the opportunity to retain players who might otherwise drift away from the game.
“They love rugby, they love the competition and camaraderie, and they can enjoy a couple of cold Southern Alps Ultras afterwards,” he said.

The team in yellow and black—the New Brighton Speedy’s—will be the ones to beat off the back of last year’s success. Club Captain Denis Cations shared his excitement ahead of the new season: “The grade has brought more players into the game and having West Melton joining the competition this year is pretty exciting. It's awesome to have Southern Alps on board again who are amazing supporters with a lot of passion for growing this grade and the game."

Sociability the key selling point—when the players are on the field, it’s all go, but off it the opportunity lies to build friendships and connect across clubs over a cold one. "Southern Alps have put up an amazing trophy and plenty of sponsors product for the winners of the competition, it just shows they're keen to see this grade be successful" said Cations.

A grade with massive potential, it’s not too late to get involved! Canterbury Rugby is on hand to support clubs needing numbers to get a team across the line, as well as players keen to lace up their boots. Get in touch today—you could be racing around the field in no time.

And for those on the sidelines, the fast-paced, free-flowing nature of the grade makes for fantastic spectator entertainment. Hosts Sydenham RFC are also holding their Senior Club Day—check out the draws and get yourself down there for a great day of footy, food, and fun!

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