The New Zealand Football Championship was the top men’s football league in New Zealand from 2004 to the 2020–21 season, according to Wikipedia. The New Zealand National League replaced it from the 2021 season. This is an independent guide, not NZ Football.
What the Championship was
The Championship was founded in 2004 as successor to a number of short-lived football leagues. Wikipedia lists its first season as 2004–05 and its last champions as 2020–21. The infobox names Team Wellington as the 2020–21 champion, their third title. The lead says: “From the 2021 season, it was replaced by the New Zealand National League.” Wikipedia
When it ended and what replaced it
The National League replaced the Championship from the 2021 season. Wikipedia describes the National League as founded in 2021 as the Championship’s successor. For the current league, see the National League page.
League names and dates
Three names matter for this period:
| Name | Years | Source |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand Football Championship | 2004 to 2021 | Wikipedia |
| New Zealand National League | From 2021 | Wikipedia |
| Men’s Dettol National League | 2026 season | NZ Football, 20 March 2026 |
Reading older seasons
Season labels span two calendar years. The last champions are listed as 2020–21 on Wikipedia, so check the label before you compare a season with a calendar year.
Searches for the old name can also return pages about the National League. Add the season label, such as 2020–21 (Wikipedia), to narrow the results.
Questions
Does the NZ Football Championship still exist?
No. The New Zealand National League replaced it from the 2021 season (Wikipedia).
When did the NZ Football Championship start?
It was founded in 2004, and its first season was 2004–05. Wikipedia
What replaced the NZ Football Championship?
The New Zealand National League, founded in 2021 as its successor. Wikipedia
Related: the current National League, a brief history of the league, how COVID-19 hit the league.
Source: Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org). Checked on October 2026.
