Few sporting contests carry as much weight as New Zealand vs South Africa.  For over a century, the All Blacks and Springboks have pushed each other to new heights, producing rugby that defines eras and inspires nations.

Why It’s Special

• Even contest – In August 2025, after more than 100 Tests, the record is close: New Zealand 62 wins, South Africa 42, and 4 draws.
• Styles collide – Traditionally, the All Blacks thrive on tempo and skill; the Boks on set-piece dominance, aerial pressure, and defence.
• Cultural resonance – From the 1981 tour protests to South Africa’s return in 1992, the rivalry has carried meaning far beyond the pitch.

Landmark Moments

• 1921 – First Test in Dunedin, New Zealand, winning 13–5.
• 1937 – Springboks win a series in New Zealand.
• 1981 – Protests rock New Zealand during the controversial tour.
• 1992 – The “Return Test” in Johannesburg after apartheid, All Blacks win 27–24.
• 1995 – Rugby World Cup final, Springboks 15–12 after extra time.
• 1996 – All Blacks finally claim a series win in South Africa.
• 2017 – New Zealand thrash the Boks 57–0 in Albany.
• 2018 – Back-to-back thrillers, South Africa win 36–34 in Wellington, All Blacks strike back 32–30 in Pretoria.
• 2023 – Springboks edge New Zealand 12–11 in Paris to win their fourth World Cup.

World Cup Edge

The Springboks hold the upper hand on the sport’s biggest stage:

• 1995 Final – Joel Stransky’s drop goal sealed glory at Ellis Park.
• 2015 Semi – All Blacks prevailed 20–18 in a Twickenham arm-wrestle.
• 2023 Final – Boks win by a single point in Paris, Siya Kolisi lifting another Webb Ellis Cup.

What Makes It Tick

• South Africa: relentless scrum, maul and kicking game that squeezes territory and errors.
• New Zealand: high tempo, skilful multiphase attack, and the ability to strike quickly from turnovers.
• Fine margins: countless Tests decided by a single penalty or drop goal.

Legends Who Defined It

All Blacks: Colin Meads, Sean Fitzpatrick, Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, Ardie Savea.
Springboks: Francois Pienaar, Joel Stransky, Victor Matfield, Siya Kolisi, Handré Pollard.

Each name tells a story of big moments in the biggest games.

Beyond Results

This rivalry is about respect.  Both nations see each other as the ultimate benchmark.  New Zealand knows that to beat South Africa, you must be at your best.  South Africa knows nothing tests them like facing the All Blacks.  That’s why victories mean so much, and defeats cut so deep.

For Fans

When the All Blacks meet the Boks, it’s more than a match; it’s history repeating and rewriting itself. Whether you’re watching at home or in the stands, show your colours with the silver fern.

Shop the latest All Blacks jerseys and supporter gear now at RYOS → Here!

Final Word

All Blacks vs Springboks is rugby’s greatest rivalry.  Born in 1921, scarred by politics, reborn in 1992, and still delivering classics today, it’s the contest that defines the game.  Every clash is a reminder of rugby’s past, present and future, and every Kiwi knows the next chapter will be just as epic.