The 1997 Oceania Cup was an international rugby league football tournament played in the Pacific region.

Western Samoa withdrew from the tournament in disagreement with Super League-aligned authorities over promises that they believed were given to them.

[1] New Zealand Māori were coached by Cameron Bell and included Dean Clark, Tukere Barlow, Frank Watene, Darryl Beazley and Solomon Kiri.

[1] New Zealand Residents were coached by Gary Kemble and included Glenn Coughlan, Blair Harding, Mike Dorreen, Iva Ropati, Shane Endacott, captain Aaron Whittaker, Mark Faumuina, Denvour Johnston, Hitro Okesene, Jerry Seuseu, Bryan Henare, Meti Noovao, Brad Williams, Joe Galuvao, Fa'ausu Afoa, Ben Fahey, Jason Kerapa, Keneti Asiata and Paul Staladi.

[1] Richard Stewart replaced Shane Endacott when he withdrew due to injury.