Wellington are the National Provincial Rugby champions.
Wellington captain Du’Plessis Kirifi
Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Lions ended a 22-year drought by beating Canterbury 26-18 in the final in Christchurch.
The last time they won the title was in the same city, beating Canterbury in the 2000 final at Lancaster Park.
Wellington led 17-13 at half time through tries to Ruben Love and Asafo Aumua, while Manasa Mataele touched down for the homeside.
Defence then got the visitors home, shutting down most of Canterbury’s attacks.
Ngatungane Punivai scored a late try for Canterbury, before a last minute penalty to Aidan Morgan sealed the game for Wellington.
Jackson Garden-Bachop kicked two conversions and three penalties for Wellington.
Wellington end the season with the NPC title and the Ranfurly Shield.
Wellington continued the form they had shown in recent weeks which had taken them on a 10-game unbeaten run.
They suffered loses to Canterbury and Northland in the second and third rounds.
Meanwhile South Canterbury retained the Meads Cup with a 47-36 win over Whanganui at Pleasant Point.
East Coast and Mid Canterbury meet in the Lochore Cup final Ruatoria on Sunday.
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