Tonga's path to a first Rugby League World Cup final will go through New Zealand after tournament organisers confirmed the men's semi-final draw on Sunday night.
The Pacific rivals will meet at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday 7 November, with kick-off scheduled for 8:05pm AEDT.
Tonga enter the knockout stage unbeaten following victories over England, Lebanon and Samoa.
Their latest result, a 20–18 win over Samoa in front of 29,411 supporters in Sydney, demonstrated their ability to survive a close contest.
New Zealand arrive after defeating Fiji 78–0 on the Gold Coast. The Kiwis have won their last two matches following an opening-round defeat to Australia.
The matchup also renews a rivalry that has produced several close contests.
Tonga defeated New Zealand 27–26 in the 2024 Pacific Championships, before the Kiwis responded with a 40–14 victory in 2025.
New Zealand will be without winger Ronaldo Mulitalo, who accepted a one-match suspension following his dismissal against Fiji.
Tonga's challenge will be to contain a Kiwi side featuring James Fisher-Harris, Jahrome Hughes and Casey McLean.
The winner advances to the World Cup final in Brisbane on 15 November.
