AFL in 2025: The Complete Guide for Kiwi Fans and Punters
AFL is fast, physical, and uniquely Aussie — but it’s gaining serious ground in Aotearoa. The action-packed game draws in both diehard fans and casual punters keen on making smart picks.
More Kiwis are tuning into weekly matches, checking the ladder, and diving into local betting markets. Interest in betting on the AFL is booming, with many turning to AFL betting tips, player stats, and expert previews to stay ahead.
With key markets like AFL Brownlow betting, AFL round 1 betting odds, and team multis becoming easier to access, following footy has never been more rewarding for fans in NZ.
Read more
Whether you’re here to support your team, place your first bet, or just see what all the hype’s about — this guide covers it all.
Top Casinos in 2025
History of AFL: From Melbourne Roots to Kiwi Growth
The AFL started in Melbourne in 1858 as a way to keep cricketers fit during the off-season. By 1896, the Victorian Football League (VFL) was formed. It featured eight teams and laid the foundation for what would become the national league.
The 1980s and 1990s brought major expansion. New clubs from Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland joined the competition. In 1990, the league officially rebranded as the Australian Football League.
Today, the league includes 18 teams. Each one has a proud history, a strong supporter base, and its own club identity. Historic rivalries still define the season — and fuel fierce matchups on the ladder.
As viewership grew, so did betting interest. Fans now track form and explore markets like:
- AFL futures betting
- AFL ladder betting
- AFL betting stats
In New Zealand, access to online betting NZ platforms has made it easier to follow the action. More punters are using NZ betting sites to back teams and analyse performance across the season.
Understanding the sport’s origins gives real meaning to today’s rivalries and results — both for fans and for anyone getting into betting on the AFL.
Understanding the Game: AFL Basics for Smarter Betting
A standard AFL game features two teams of 18 players. It’s played over four quarters, with each quarter lasting about 20 minutes of play. Points are scored by kicking the ball through the goalposts:
- 6 points for a goal (between the two tall central posts)
- 1 point for a behind (between a central and outer post)
Play starts with a centre bounce. The ruckman jumps to tap the ball to a teammate. The ball moves by kicking or handballing — punching it from one hand using the other. When a player catches a kick that travels at least 15 metres, it’s called a mark and results in a free kick.
Each position matters:
- Midfielders carry the ball forward
- Forwards aim to score
- Defenders stop attacks
- Ruckmen contest stoppages
Tackles must be between the shoulders and knees. Failing to dispose of the ball properly gives the opposition a free kick.
For punters, understanding gameplay is crucial. Stats like disposal efficiency, pressure acts, and contested possessions all influence:
- AFL betting strategy
- AFL betting odds
- AFL multi betting selections
Smart punters don’t just back favourites. They watch team form, matchups, and conditions. Tracking injuries and analysing stats is a key part of reliable AFL betting tips.
If you’re new to betting on the AFL, knowing how the game works can give you a real edge.
AFL Rivalries and Top Clubs: What Punters Should Watch
The AFL features 18 clubs from across Australia. Some, like Collingwood, Carlton, and Essendon, have over a century of history. Others, such as Gold Coast Suns and GWS Giants, are more recent additions.
Every club has its own identity — colours, chants, and a fierce fan base. These differences fuel iconic rivalries that shape the season. Some of the biggest clashes include:
- Collingwood vs Carlton – long-standing and fiery
- Essendon vs Hawthorn – always physical
- Fremantle vs West Coast – the Western Derby
These matchups often affect the AFL ladder and spark massive interest from both fans and punters.
Key rivalry rounds, like AFL betting round 11, often feature tight contests and unpredictable outcomes. These games frequently shift:
- AFL betting odds
- Live betting markets
- Futures markets tied to AFL betting 2025
Strong clubs don’t just win — they deliver under pressure. For anyone keen on betting on the AFL, watching how teams perform in big moments can reveal valuable form trends.
AFL Season Format: From Round 1 to Grand Final Odds
The AFL season kicks off in March and runs through to the Grand Final in late September. Each club plays 23 games across 24 rounds — with one round off for rest.
Games are mainly played on weekends, though some midweek fixtures appear during busy stretches. After the home-and-away rounds, the top 8 teams on the AFL ladder qualify for the finals series.
AFL Season Breakdown:
| Phase | Timeframe | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Season | Rounds 1–24 | 23 matches + 1 bye round per team |
| Finals Series | 4 weeks (Sept) | Top 8 in knockout format |
| AFL Grand Final | Last Saturday Sept | Played at the MCG |
For punters, each phase brings betting opportunities:
- AFL round 1 betting odds often offer early value
- Mid-season form swings affect AFL betting odds 2025
- Finals footy attracts interest in betting odds all finals
- Grand Final week drives action around AFL Grand Final betting odds
Knowing the full season structure lets you plan ahead — whether you’re backing a team to win it all or targeting short-term bets.
Pros and Cons of AFL: What Makes It a Punters’ Favourite
The AFL is a high-speed, physical game that never stops moving. It keeps fans entertained from start to finish and offers great variety for punters across the season.
Many punters enjoy the extra buzz that comes with betting on the AFL. From AFL Brownlow betting to AFL futures betting and AFL ladder betting, there’s something for everyone — whether you’re into team punts or long-term markets.
AFL in New Zealand: Local Growth, Kiwi Talent, and Betting Trends
The AFL has gained serious traction in New Zealand in recent years. Although rugby remains king, more Kiwis are picking up the ball — and placing bets.
According to AFL New Zealand, there are now over 30,000 registered players across the country. That’s a 20% increase since 2018. Programmes like AFL KiwiKick are active in 500+ schools, teaching basic skills like kicking, marking, and handballing.
Big matches held at Wellington’s Sky Stadium — including Anzac Day games — have attracted crowds of over 20,000.
AFL Growth in NZ
| Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| Player numbers (2024) | 30,000+ |
| Growth since 2018 | +20% |
| Schools running AFL KiwiKick | 500+ |
| Stadium attendance (per match) | 20,000+ |
| Betting traffic during finals | Up 15–20% |
Betting engagement is growing too. Traffic to NZ betting sites spikes by 15–20% during finals. Punters are exploring:
- AFL betting tips
- AFL betting previews
- Odds comparisons on top betting sites in New Zealand
Kiwi talent is emerging too. Kurt Heatherley, signed by Hawthorn, paved the way for more local players to aim for the AFL stage.
With increased coverage, youth development, and better access to sports betting NZ platforms, the AFL is building a strong base in Aotearoa — on the field and in betting markets.
AFL FAQ: Quick Answers for Kiwi Fans and Punters
1. What is the AFL?
The AFL (Australian Football League) is the highest level of Aussie Rules football. It includes 18 professional teams from across Australia and runs from March to September each year.
2. How many teams play in the AFL?
There are 18 clubs, including Collingwood, Carlton, Sydney, and West Coast. Each has its own history, loyal supporters, and strong club culture.
3. When does the AFL season start and end?
The regular season kicks off in late March and finishes with the AFL Grand Final in late September.
4. Can I bet on AFL from New Zealand?
Absolutely. Popular NZ betting sites offer markets on AFL betting odds, AFL multi betting, and even futures like AFL Brownlow betting.
5. Where can I find good AFL betting tips?
Many punters use trusted sources for AFL betting previews, form guides, and free AFL betting tips. These usually cover player stats, injuries, and trends.
Final Thoughts: Why AFL Keeps Me Coming Back
For me, the AFL is unmatched when it comes to fast, physical, and unpredictable sport. From big marks to momentum swings, there’s never a dull moment. I’ve followed the game for years, and each season brings new stories and standout plays.
I’ve also got into the punting side. Following AFL betting tips, checking form guides, and comparing AFL betting stats have helped me make smarter picks. I always look out for early value in AFL round 1 betting odds, and by finals, I’m tracking AFL Grand Final betting odds closely.
What makes it better? Seeing more Kiwis getting stuck into the game. With easier access to sports betting NZ platforms and more coverage here in Aotearoa, the AFL feels like it’s finally part of the local sports mix.
Whether you’re here for the hits or the bets, it’s a game worth watching — and backing.