Chiefs Manawa are Super Rugby Aupiki champions after thrashing the Blues 35-0, but other results from the inaugural competition are being called a success leading into the Rugby World Cup later this year.
There were plenty of celebrations as Chiefs Manawa won Sunday's effective Super Rugby Aupiki decider.
And despite the COVID-impacted competition being squeezed into just 10 days, Chiefs and Black Ferns captain Les Elder believes it was important it still went ahead - with an even bigger tournament in New Zealand in October.
"We needed to play this," Elder says.
"It was critical for a bigger picture, with the pinnacle event at the end of the year."
Critical because the Black Ferns were thrashed by both England and France during last year's Northern tour.
But Hazel Tubic says with only training camps from now until October, it's a pity Super Rugby Aupiki was scheduled so early in the year.
"You know, we might want it a bit closer to World Cup time," she says.
"That's the only way we are going to get better, is if we are constantly being put in those positions of playing strong players."
After just three rounds and five games all up, Elder has seen players shine.
"It's given girls that may not have had a chance, or be seen, an opportunity to be.
"That's what we want, we want those headaches at the top."
It's hoped selection headaches and internal competition for spots will have the Black Ferns in the best possible position to improve from last year - and lift back-to-back World Cup trophies.
