Waikato back in Premier division of NZ rugby competition

Waikato have earned promotion back to the Premiership division of the national domestic rugby competition in New Zealand.

Relegated after finishing seventh and last in the standings in 2017, Waikato covincingly beat Otago 36‑13 in the Championship division final in Hamilton last night.

It was the team's first provincial title since 2006 and also gave them revenge for their loss to Otago to relinquish the Ranfurly Shield earlier this month.

Waikato will trade places with Taranaki, who have been relegated after finishing last in this year's Premiership.