Bayleys bring back Super Rugby to the Basin

The Highlanders and Bayleys Queenstown are excited to announce they will host Moana Pasifika in a pre-season clash at the spectacular Queenstown Events Centre on Friday, 6 February 2026. With kick-off scheduled for 2:30pm it’s a perfect way to celebrate Waitangi Day, with world-class rugby in one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations.

This special fixture, proudly brought back to the basin by Bayleys, offers fans a unique opportunity to enjoy elite rugby in the heart of Central Otago. With the Remarkables as a backdrop and the energy of Queenstown behind them, the Highlanders are set to deliver a great afternoon of sport and celebration.

Stacy Coburn, CEO, Bayleys Queenstown, commented:

“We are excited to continue our brand alignment and long association with the Highlanders and continue to bring games to our region and connecting the local supporters, families, our wider region and more so the young fans, who don’t often get an opportunity to see them up close.”

The Highlanders last played in Queenstown in 2024, drawing a crowd of 5,000 fans to the Queenstown Events Centre. The strong turnout highlighted the region’s passion for rugby and set the stage for a return fixture in 2026. 

Highlanders Marketing Manager, Amanda Gould commented that the Queenstown match offers a unique opportunity to blend sport, tourism, and community spirit. “Queenstown is the perfect setting for a summer preseason rugby game. We’re proud to have the support of a partner like Bayleys who helps us to bring games like these to the region.

“It’s always a vibrant match-day experience and we invite our local fans and supporters from our around our region to come and enjoy all that Queenstown and Central Otago have to offer and make it a long weekend to remember.” 

Gates will open at 1:30 PM, with pre-match entertainment, food trucks, and family friendly activities available for fans to enjoy before the action kicks off at 2:30pm.

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