Zoe Benson

Zoe Benson joined the Wellington Phoenix on a youth development agreement from Auckland United in December after a standout campaign in the National League.

The attacker began her junior career at Bucklands Beach, before featuring in the Eastern Suburbs first team then moving to Auckland United in early 2025.

She scored the winner in the Dettol National League final against her old club in 2025, and was the top scorer in the OFC Champions League as Auckland United won the domestic treble.

Benson has also been prolific on the international stage, featuring at the U-17 World Cup in 2022 and representing New Zealand up to the U-19 level, including winning the golden ball at the 2025 OFC U-19 Women’s Championship in Tahiti.

2025-26 season

Zoe Benson made her first A-League appearance against Melbourne City, coming off the bench in a 1-0 away loss.

She would feature a total of fifteen times off the pine during the campaign.

Benson nabbed her first Phoenix goal against Canberra, opening the scoring late on in a crucial 2-0 win.

She was also selected for the U-20 World Cup, where she was an important part of the New Zealand team.

Benson signed a three-year contract with the Nix, her first pro deal, at the end of July.

“It’s always been a childhood dream of mine to be a pro so when the opportunity came up I didn’t hesitate to sign my first professional contract,” Benson said.

“To sign for New Zealand’s only professional team is even more special.

“Last season was a great experience and I loved it a lot.”