Ahead of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season teams have been busy securing their squads. Here is a summary of the latest player signatures.
Hurricanes – IN/Resigned
Hurricanes have announced the re-signing of Ere Enari for the 2026 season. The former Crusaders & Moana Pasifika player who played 12 times for the Hurricanes in the 2025 season said, “It’s been such a privilege to represent this club, and God has opened the door to another year. My wife and I are looking forward to coming back to our Wellington family in 2026.” The talented halfback who joined the Hurricanes at the start of the 2025 season, after 3 seasons in the newly formed Moana Pasifika team, adds depth and experience to the Hurricanes halfbacks.
The Hurricanes have confirmed the re-signing of hooker Jacob Devery for the 2026 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season. A product of the Hurricanes development system, Devery was selected for the Hurricanes U18 team during his final year at Hastings Boys’ High School in 2016. The following year, he made his NPC debut for Hawke’s Bay, and after a breakout campaign with the Magpies in 2021, Devery was called into the Hurricanes to make his Super Rugby Pacific debut in the side’s season-opening clash against the Crusaders in Dunedin. Devery has overcome serious knee injuries to accumulate 17 appearances and score four tries for the Hurricanes. His efforts during this year’s campaign were rewarded with a maiden call-up to the Māori All Blacks squad to face the Japan XV and Scotland.
The Hurricanes have announced the signing of Japanese international, Warner Dearns, for the 2026 season. “I’m really excited about the opportunity to join the Hurricanes and take on a new challenge in Super Rugby. I’m looking forward to continuing to grow as a player and giving everything I have for the jersey,” Dearns, who plays for the Toshiba Brave Lupus club in Japan, said. “I’m also incredibly grateful to Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo for supporting me in taking on this challenge in 2026.“ The Wellington-born, 2.02m and 124kg lock, who has made 21 appearances for Japan, adds height and strength to the Hurricanes forward pack.
Callum Harkin has signed until 2027. The 26-year-old has represented Wellington in the NPC since 2024 and was called into the Hurricanes squad ahead of Round 1 of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, making his debut in the same fixture. Coach Clark Laidlaw said, “He’s really coachable and wants to get better. And he’s got some real attributes, being able to play at 15 and 10. He’s a really good athlete; he’s fast and has a good, long kicking game, as well as a goal kicker.”
Tighthead prop, Pasilio Tosi has recommitted to the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby through to 2028. Hurricane #295 debuted for the Hurricanes against the Crusaders in 2022 and made his All Blacks debut in 2024 becoming All Black #1211. The 26-year-old grew up in Dunedin and attended Otago Boys’ High School where he excelled in multiple sports. Tosi, has gone through the New Zealand rugby pathways, representing Bay of Plenty in the Bunnings Warehouse NPC, before breaking into Super Rugby, and then ultimately donning the black jersey.
Billy Proctor, Hurricane #260 has recommitted to the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby through to 2027. The St Patrick’s College (Wellington) old boy debuted for the Hurricanes in 2019 against the Waratahs in Sydney. This was a standout year for the young athlete as he went on to sign a 5-year deal with the Hurricanes at only 19 years of age. Rugby is in the blood in the Proctor family as Billy’s older brother Matt Proctor, is also a professional rugby player (Former Hurricane and All Black). Known for his rugby mind, skill and brilliance in the centre position, Proctor represented the Māori All Blacks then he was finally noticed by the All Blacks and made his All Blacks debut in 2024.
Ngatungane Punivai, Hurricane #314, has recommitted to the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby through to 2027. Punivai debuted for the Hurricanes in 2024 against the Rebels in Palmerston North. The 26-year-old has shown his versatility in the backline, impressing across the wing and centre positions. Originally from Lower Hutt, he was educated at Christ’s College in Christchurch where he captained their 1st XV side, as well as being deputy head prefect. Punivai consistently displays leadership qualities that are valuable in the Hurricanes environment and on the field.
Hurricanes – OUT
The Hurricanes have announced the departure of 8 players at the end of the 2025 season:
Peter Umaga-Jensen, 54 caps [departs for Japan]
Zach Gallagher – #324 (9 caps)
Will Tucker – #320 (7 caps)
Riley Hohepa – #308, (12 caps)
Daniel Sinkinson – #309 (6 caps)
Kade Banks – #321 (2 caps)
Lucas Cashmore
Josh Taula
Highlanders – IN/Resigned
The Highlanders have announced the re-signing of two exciting young talents, Te Kamaka Howden and Veveni Lasaqa, securing their futures with the club through 2026 and 2027. A powerful and versatile loose forward, Te Kamaka Howden has been a standout since joining the squad, impressing with his athleticism, work rate, and physical presence. At just 24 years old, Howden has already shown strong leadership qualities and is seen as a key figure in the Highlanders’ forward pack moving forward. Electric loose forward Veveni Lasaqa has also recommitted to the Highlanders through to the end of 2027. He was a valuable acquisition for the club’s loose forwards group this season, his direct, energetic play caught the eye of many and he was voted the 2025 Rookie of the year at the recent Highlanders Annual Awards evening.
The Highlanders have confirmed that All Black and Highlanders’ prop Ethan de Groot has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby, the Highlanders and Southland Stags through to the end of 2027. A proud Southlander and formidable front rower, de Groot has been a consistent presence in the Highlanders’ forward pack since making his debut in 2020 racking up 62 Highlanders caps. He has been an All Black since 2021 and played 29 tests for New Zealand in the black jersey.
The Highlanders have announced that explosive outside backs Caleb Tangitau and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens have re-signed with the club through to the end of the 2028 Super Rugby Pacific season. Both players have been standout performers in 2025, bringing electric pace, attacking flair, and strong defensive presence to the Highlanders’ backline. Their commitment to the southern franchise marks a significant boost to the team’s long-term ambitions. Caleb Tangitau, 22, made a name for himself on the international Sevens stage before transitioning to Super Rugby, where his blend of power and pace has quickly made him a crowd favourite. The 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season has been a break out one for the pacy winger scoring six tries before having his season curtailed by an ongoing groin injury. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, 23, has brought versatility and X-factor to the Highlanders since joining the squad in 2024, with the ability to cover wing and fullback his flair and vision have made him one of the most exciting backs in the competition. Having recovered from a serious neck injury, his injection into the Highlanders backline mid-season, added some real punch to the Highlanders attack.
The Highlanders are pleased to announce that powerhouse winger Timoci Tavatavanawai has re-signed with the club for a further two years, committing to the team through the end of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season. Tavatavanawai, who joined the Highlanders in 2024, has quickly become a fan favourite and a pivotal part of the Highlanders’ backline with his explosive speed, relentless physicality, and try-scoring prowess. His on-field impact and off-field leadership have been instrumental, culminating in his appointment as co-Captain for the 2025 season. He form won him his first All Blacks’ cap against France in July.
The Highlanders are excited to announce that towering lock Fabian Holland has re-signed with the club for an additional three years, extending his commitment through to the end of the 2028 Super Rugby Pacific season. Since arriving in New Zealand from the Netherlands at just 16 years old, Holland has rapidly ascended through the rugby ranks. Selected for the NZ U20s in 2021 he also made his NPC debut for Otago in the same season. In 2022 at just 19 years of age he played the first of his 33 appearance for the Highlanders and has since become a mainstay in the starting lineup playing 13 games in 2024 and every game in 2025. His form earned him an All Black call-up in 2025 and he won hist first cap against France.
The Highlanders are pleased to announce that dynamic halfback Folau Fakatava has extended his contract with the club through the 2026 and 2027 Super Rugby Pacific seasons. Fakatava, 25, made his debut for the Highlanders in 2019 as an exciting 19-year-old talent. Since then, he has established himself as a standout performer with his explosive speed, creativity, and ability to ignite attacking opportunities. His impressive form earned him a call-up to the All Blacks in 2022, making his international debut against Ireland. While his time in the national side was brief, he has continued to be a consistent game-changer at Super Rugby level, regularly influencing outcomes whether starting or coming off the bench.
Crusaders – INS/Resigned
All Black Centre Braydon Ennor has extended his contract with the Crusaders through to 2026. Originally from Auckland, Ennor first made the move south in 2015 when he joined the Crusaders Academy. He stormed onto the provincial rugby scene in 2017 with a standout season for Canterbury, which earned him a place in Super Rugby the following year when he became Crusader #217.
The Crusaders and New Zealand Rugby have secured the future of one of their most powerful players, with promising prop Fletcher Newell re-signing through to 2028. Born and raised in North Canterbury, Newell joined the Crusaders Academy in 2018 whilst studying towards a Bachelor of Commerce. He became Crusader #248 in 2021, something he says means a lot to him and his family. Newell made his All Blacks debut in 2022 and has just achieved 25 caps in the black jersey.
Loose forward Xavier Saifoloi has extended his contract with the Crusaders, committing to the club through to the 2027 season. Saifoloi, who has just turned 22, first made his made his provincial debut for Waikato in 2023. He made his Crusaders debut earlier this season against the Western Force in round five to become Crusader #297.
Chiefs – INS/Resigned
Gallagher Chiefs fans can look forward to at least four more years of Damian McKenzie magic, following the star playmaker agreeing to terms on a new deal which runs through to the end of the 2029 season. Already the club’s all-time leading points scorer, the new contract paves the way for the 29-year-old to become just the third player ever to reach 150 games for the Gallagher Chiefs, alongside Sam Cane (150) and Liam Messam (183 games). A fan favourite ever since his Gallagher Chiefs debut in the 2015 season, McKenzie has been in scintillating form to start the 2025 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season, scoring 65 points in his opening five games. His dynamic playing style alongside his signature pre-kick grin has been delighting fans across the global rugby community since his first start for the All Blacks in 2016.
The Gallagher Chiefs have secured one of their most charismatic and versatile players, with Naitoa Ah Kuoi extendeding his contract for another year. The 24-year-old lock, who made his debut for the Chiefs in 2020, has become a fan favourite across the country for his powerful on-field performances and infectious energy off it. Known for his fearless playing style and genuine connection with supporters, Ah Kuoi’s recommitment is a major win for the club.
Gallagher Chiefs Captain Luke Jacobson has re-signed with the club and New Zealand Rugby for another two years. A powerful loose forward and strong leader, Jacobson has become one of the most respected figures in New Zealand rugby for his consistent performances, quiet determination, and unwavering loyalty to the Chiefs jersey. Since making his debut in 2018, Jacobson has earned 90 caps for the club, becoming integral to their physical, disciplined style of play. His formidable performance saw him debut for the All Blacks in 2019, earning 23 appearances in the black jersey. Currently in his second year as captain, Jacobson has guided the Gallagher Chiefs through back-to-back finals campaigns and is excited about what the team can achieve together in the coming years.
World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year Wallace Sititi has committed for another two years with the Gallagher Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby, signing a new contract until the end of 2027.Considered one of the most exciting young players in world rugby, Sititi made his Super Rugby Pacific debut for the Gallagher Chiefs in 2024 and quickly earned a place as All Black number #1218. That same year, he was named World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year and All Blacks Player of the Year.
The Gallagher Chiefs have received a major boost with powerhouse lock Tupou Vaa’i re-signing through to the end of the 2027 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season. Since making his debut for the Gallagher Chiefs in 2020, Vaa’i has established himself as a cornerstone of the squad, making 70 appearances for the Chiefs and earning 38 Test caps for the All Blacks.
Now firmly established as a senior member of the playing group, Vaa’i has stepped further into a leadership role this season, captaining the side against the Brumbies and Fijian Drua.
Blues – INS/Resigned
The Blues have announced the signing of rising loose forward Malachi Wrampling through to the end of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season. Exciting young prospect Wrampling heads to the Blues after making his Super Rugby debut for the Chiefs earlier this year against the Fijian Drua. The 21-year-old is a former New Zealand Schools and New Zealand U20 representative, and was a standout performer in age-grade rugby, rising through the Chiefs U18 and U20 development pathways after graduating from St Paul’s Collegiate in Hamilton.
The Blues have signed skilful hooker Bradley Slater through to the end of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season. Slater, 26, arrives with a wealth of experience from the Chiefs, where he notched up 68 caps since making his debut in 2019. A product of New Plymouth Boys’ High School and Taranaki Rugby, Slater was part of the New Zealand U20 squad in 2019 and rapidly rose to prominence under the coaching of Warren Gatland.
Dynamic winger Caleb Clarke has re-signed with the Blues, and New Zealand Rugby (NZR), through to the end of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season. A fan favourite since bursting onto the scene as a teenager, Clarke has become a key figure in the Blues backline with his explosive pace, powerful running and infectious energy both on and off the field. Since making his Super Rugby debut in 2018, the Auckland-born winger has grown into one of the game’s most exciting talents.
Blues captain Patrick Tuipulotu has re-signed with the club, and New Zealand Rugby (NZR), until the end of the 2028 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season. One of the most respected figures in New Zealand rugby, Tuipulotu’s recommitment is a major moment for the club. A talismanic leader and cornerstone of the Blues forward pack, Tuipulotu’s presence will remain central to the team’s ambitions. Tuipulotu, who made his debut for the Blues in 2014, has since amassed over 100 caps for the club and established himself as one of the most dominant locks in Super Rugby. Now aged 32, Tuipulotu’s journey began at St Peter’s College in Auckland before rising through the New Zealand Schools and Under 20s programmes. He made his All Blacks debut in 2014.
The Blues are pleased to announce that lock Sam Darry has re-signed with the club and New Zealand Rugby (NZR) on a three-year extension, keeping him in blue through to the end of the 2028 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season. Since arriving from Christchurch in 2021, Darry has become a key figure in the Blues engine room – bringing physicality, set-piece precision, and relentless work ethic to every performance. Standing at 2.03m, Darry’s presence in the lineout and mobility around the park were on full display throughout the 2024 campaign, culminating in a well-deserved All Blacks Test debut against Fiji.
Exciting young Blues midfielder Xavi Taele has signed on for another season with the club, committing to the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific campaign. A product of the Blues development pathway and Saint Kentigern College, Taele has steadily climbed the ranks, representing the club at U17, U18, and captaining the Blues U20 side. He also represented the New Zealand U20s in 2023 and 2024.
Blues – OUT
The Blues have confirmed that Rieko Ioane will take a sabbatical in 2026, before returning to the club for the 2027 season. Ioane has been a cornerstone of the Blues since joining the squad as a teenager out of Auckland Grammar. From his explosive debut season in 2015 to his 100th Blues appearance alongside his brother Akira in 2023, Rieko has been one of the most dynamic and consistent performers in Super Rugby.
Blues flanker Adrian Choat departed the club at the end of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season. A proud West Aucklander and product of Waitematā Rugby and Liston College, Choat has been a passionate and hard-nosed presence in the Blues environment since making his debut in 2021.
Blues hooker Ricky Riccitelli will depart the club at the conclusion of the 2025 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season to take up a contract in France. Riccitelli joined the Blues in 2022 and has become a key contributor in the forward pack, known for his work rate, physicality at the breakdown, and accuracy at set piece. After earning the starting jersey in 2023, he went on to play a key role in the 2024 championship-winning season, featuring in 14 matches and starting in the Grand Final at Eden Park.
Bryce Heem has officially announced his retirement from rugby. Heem, known for his presence and leadership on the field, leaves behind a legacy for the next generation of midfielders to follow. Heem’s career spanned several high-profile teams, beginning with the All Blacks Sevens, before moving on to play for the Chiefs, Worcester Warriors, and Toulon. He also played the majority of his NPC rugby for his home province of Auckland with early stints at Northland and Tasman.