The sun hasn’t yet risen over Auckland’s harbor, but inside the Flying Mulligan pub, the atmosphere is electric. It’s 3 AM, and dozens of red-clad supporters are gathered around multiple screens, watching Liverpool FC battle it out at Anfield. This scene repeats across New Zealand, from Wellington to Christchurch, where dedicated supporters brave pre-dawn hours to follow their beloved club.
According to a study by Kiwionlinecasino about NZ football supporters, New Zealand’s Liverpool supporters have earned a reputation as among the most passionate in the global Liverpool family. With over 15,000 registered supporters across the country, they’ve created a unique blend of Kiwi culture (besides playing at Kiwi casinos) and Merseyside tradition that sets them apart from other international fan bases.
“There’s something special about supporting Liverpool from New Zealand,” says Mark Wilson, president of the Official Liverpool FC Supporters Club New Zealand (LFCSCNZ). “The distance and time difference only make our connection stronger. When you’re up at 3 AM watching a match with fellow supporters, you know you’re among true believers.”
The roots of Liverpool support in New Zealand trace back to the 1960s when British immigrants brought their football allegiances with them. The club’s golden era under Bill Shankly and Bob Paisley coincided with New Zealand’s first regular television broadcasts of English football, allowing a new generation of Kiwis to witness Liverpool’s dominance firsthand.
The first official New Zealand supporters’ club was established in Auckland in 1982, during a period when Liverpool were collecting trophies at an unprecedented rate. “Those early days were crucial,” recalls original member Dave Thompson. “We’d gather around one tiny television, often with terrible reception, but the passion was incredible. We felt connected to something bigger than ourselves.”
Today, that passion has evolved into a sophisticated network of supporters’ groups across the country. The LFCSCNZ now boasts chapters in every major city, with Wellington’s group notably winning the Official Liverpool FC International Supporters’ Club of the Year award in 2019 for their community initiatives and match-day atmosphere.
The modern Kiwi Liverpool supporter experience is uniquely New Zealand. Match viewings often begin with a traditional Māori karakia (blessing), while supporter chants have been adapted to include te reo Māori lyrics. The famous “You’ll Never Walk Alone” anthem has been translated and is occasionally sung in both English and te reo Māori before matches.
Social media has transformed how Kiwi supporters connect with both the club and each other. The New Zealand supporters’ Facebook group boasts over 20,000 members, sharing match reactions, memorabilia collections, and organizing meet-ups. WhatsApp groups buzz throughout the night during matches, creating virtual communities across the country.
The dedication of New Zealand supporters is perhaps best exemplified by their commitment to watching matches live, despite the challenging time differences. “When you’re getting up at 2 AM for a midweek match, then heading straight to work, that’s real dedication,” says Sarah Chen, who runs the Christchurch supporters’ group. “But we wouldn’t have it any other way. Those early morning matches create a special bond between supporters.”
Local businesses have embraced this dedication. Several pubs across the country have become official Liverpool supporters’ venues, opening their doors in the early hours to accommodate match viewings. The Flying Mulligan in Auckland has even decorated one section permanently in Liverpool memorabilia, including signed jerseys and scarves donated by visiting players.
The Kiwi supporters’ commitment extends beyond match days. The LFCSCNZ runs several community initiatives, including a youth football program that provides coaching and equipment to underprivileged children. They’ve also established links with local football clubs, helping to develop grassroots football in New Zealand while maintaining connections to Liverpool’s style of play and values.
Notable supporters include several prominent New Zealanders. Former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw is a well-known Liverpool fan, often sharing his match reactions on social media. Actor Sam Neill has been spotted wearing Liverpool gear on film sets, while several members of the New Zealand parliament are registered supporters’ club members.
The multi-generational aspect of Kiwi Liverpool support is particularly striking. “I’m now watching matches with my children and grandchildren,” says Thompson. “They understand the history, the traditions, and what makes Liverpool special. But they’re also creating their own traditions, their own ways of supporting the club that are uniquely Kiwi.”
Local businesses owned by supporters have found creative ways to maintain connections with Liverpool. The “Anfield Bakery” in Wellington produces Liverpool-themed treats for match days, while a Auckland-based tour company organizes annual trips to Liverpool, helping Kiwi supporters fulfill their dreams of visiting Anfield.
The economic impact of New Zealand’s Liverpool supporters is significant. Besides match-day revenue for venues, supporters contribute to a thriving market for official merchandise. The Official Liverpool FC Store in Auckland reports some of the highest per-capita sales of any international location.
The supporters’ influence extends to youth development. The LFCSCNZ has established partnerships with local academies, providing pathways for young New Zealand players to attend Liverpool FC’s international academy programs. Several young Kiwi players have already benefited from these initiatives, attending training camps in Liverpool.
When Liverpool’s first team visited New Zealand as part of their pre-season tour in 2019, the response was overwhelming. Match tickets sold out within hours, and thousands attended open training sessions. The team was welcomed with a traditional Māori pōwhiri (welcome ceremony), a moment that symbolized the unique cultural fusion that New Zealand supporters have created.
Looking ahead, New Zealand’s Liverpool supporters continue to grow in numbers and influence. Plans are underway for a dedicated supporters’ center in Auckland, which would serve as a museum, meeting place, and venue for community activities. The LFCSCNZ is also working on expanding its youth development programs and strengthening ties with Liverpool FC’s international development team.
“What makes Kiwi supporters special is our ability to maintain intense passion while creating something uniquely our own,” reflects Wilson. “We’re proud to be part of the global Liverpool family, but we’re also proud of the distinctive flavor we bring to it.”
As another pre-dawn match approaches, supporters across New Zealand prepare their red jerseys and scarves. In homes, pubs, and supporters’ clubs from Auckland to Dunedin, they’ll gather once again, ready to sing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” – in English and te reo Māori – unified by their love for a club half a world away, but feeling closer than ever.
