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Highlanders Embrace Super Rugby’s 30th Anniversary with 2026 Draw
28 August 2025
As Super Rugby celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026, the Highlanders are set to honour the legacy of the competition with a draw that delivers rivalry, spectacle, and cross-Pacific connection. From facing last year’s finalists at home in the opening two rounds to a special ANZAC weekend Super Round clash at the opening of One NZ Stadium in Christchurch. This draw also features a game against the entertaining Fijian Drua at home in Fiji. The season promises to be a fitting tribute to three decades of Super Rugby excellence.
Since its inception in 1996, Super Rugby has evolved into one of the world’s premier rugby competitions. The Highlanders, proud founding members, will have the privilege of kicking off the 30-year anniversary celebrations by hosting the defending champions and long-time southern rivals the Crusaders on Opening Day at Forsyth Barr Stadium. In round two they back up against last year’s runners-up, the Chiefs, in an early season back-to-back test of strength and cohesion.
Highlanders Head Coach, Jamie Joseph said: "There’s no better way to mark 30 years of Super Rugby than by facing the best right out of the gate. A great way to honour the past and build toward the future."
The Highlanders will feature on Sunday during Super Round, joining other Super Rugby teams for a celebration of rugby and remembrance. The combination of Super Round and the opening of the One NZ Stadium in Christchurch will ensure a weekend to remember for all rugby fans from both sides of the Tasman.
"It’s a privilege for the club to be invited to play a game against Moana Pasifika during Super Round at the opening of One NZ Stadium," said Highlanders CEO Roger Clark. "It’s certainly a moment to celebrate with our Southern neighbours, it’s been a long wait for their supporters and it’s going to be a huge weekend for everyone involved."
In a season highlight the Highlanders take on the Fijian Drua in Fiji, bringing Super Rugby’s 30th anniversary celebrations to the islands. The Highlanders have not played in Fiji since 2022 and the game will be poignant homecoming for the Highlanders co-captain and All Black midfielder Timoci Tavatavanawai.
"Playing in Fiji is always more than a match—it’s a celebration of rugby and culture," said Tavatavanawai. "It’s a great challenge to play the Drua in Fiji and I can’t wait to play there and feel that energy from the crowd, it will be a great occasion.”
Fans are encouraged to sign up to the Highlanders website to be the first to know when 2026 Club Memberships go on sale – don’t miss this historic season.
