Ethan de Groot recommits to the Highlanders and New Zealand Rugby to the end of 2029

Highlanders and All Blacks prop Ethan de Groot has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby (NZR), the Highlanders and Southland through to the end of 2029.

The 43 Test loose head prop’s new deal extends a cornerstone of the All Blacks scrum for another two years and runs through to the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand.

The 28-year-old Southland front rower and his wife welcomed a daughter, Nova, in March and her arrival made the decision to extend his contract that much easier.

“Re-signing was an easy decision for me. I love the Highlanders and playing for my province, and I take real pride in representing my country in the All Blacks. I’ve always been proud of where I come from, so staying down south and continuing to represent this region for another two years was an easy choice.”
 
De Groot, who brought up 76 games for the Highlanders in June, has started each of the All Blacks first three Nations Championship wins of 2026, and scored his fifth Test try against Italy, said his contract extension was the continuation of a great start to the year.

“Three wins has been a great way to start the year, but the hard work has just begun. It’s a huge season with the Nations Championship and the South Africa tour. With the World Cup in sight next year and the Lions tour even further forward, it is a goal of mine to keep my form, to be a part of both of these career highlights”.

All Blacks Assistant Coach Jason Ryan said:

"It's great to see Ethan recommit; he’s an important member of our forward pack. He understands what's required at Test rugby and enjoys the hard parts of the game. We’re excited to see him continue developing and contributing to our game over the coming years.”

NZR CEO Steve Lancaster said:

“Ethan’s commitment and passion for the black jersey are obvious to all of us every time he takes the field for the All Blacks and he’s shown the same loyalty and work ethic for his home region as a Southland Stag and a Highlander. It’s great to have Ethan and his family continue their journey with New Zealand Rugby for another three years.”

Highlanders CEO Roger Clark said:

“Having Ethan commit to New Zealand rugby and the Highlanders through to 2029 is something that will delight our fans as much as it does everyone within the club. He is a hugely valued member of our organisation, and we’ve watched him grow from strength to strength both as a player and as a person in recent years.

“Being recognised as our Highlander Man in 2024 and 2026, as well as our MVP this season, speaks to the influence, leadership and commitment he brings to the club every day. Extending his contract is simply another example of the passion he has for the Highlanders and the South.”

Rugby Southland CEO Hua Tamariki said:

"Ethan’s decision to recommit through to the end of 2029 is fantastic news for Southland rugby and a reflection of his deep connection to the province that helped shape him. As a proud Southlander, Ethan embodies the values that define our region — hard work, courage, resilience, loyalty and a commitment to giving back.

“His extension with New Zealand Rugby, the Highlanders and the Southland Stags ensures that our aspiring young players can continue to look up to one of their own who has shown that with dedication, perseverance and belief, Southlanders can achieve success on the biggest stages in world rugby. We are incredibly proud that he will continue to wear the 'S' and represent the Southland Stags."

ENDS