NZ North Island Championship 2026 - A three way tie for first place - Nadia, Alphaeus, Daqi!

The North Island Chess Championship 2026 concluded with a three-way tie for first place, as WFM Nadia Braganza, FM Alphaeus Ang, and FM Daqi Mao each finished on an outstanding 6.5/8. (In the picture Nadia and Daqi)

Nadia Braganza's shared title marks a historic milestone, making her the first woman to win the North Island Chess Championship. Her achievement follows another landmark success in New Zealand chess, after WIM Isabelle Ning became the sole South Island Chess Champion in 2025. These back-to-back accomplishments highlight the growing strength and success of women in New Zealand's premier regional chess championships.

Congratulations to all the North Island Chess Championship winners across the various categories, including the deserving grade prize winners, whose outstanding performances made this year's championship a memorable success.

The prize-giving ceremony also featured two special presentations. Sir Paul Spiller was honoured with an award in recognition of his outstanding service and lifelong contribution to New Zealand chess. In addition, Evguenia Charomova received the FIDE Commission Choice Award in recognition of her inspiring work through the Checkmate Autism and Power of Chess project.

Over the Matariki weekend is the Peter Stuart Memorial Open 2026, featuring classical time controls and strong competition.

Looking ahead, players can also mark their calendars for the Chessroad Rapid Tournament at Glenfield on Saturday, 18 July 2026, for fast-paced chess.