Kane Jury appointed New Zealand Rugby National Pathways Head Coach

The Highlanders congratulate Assistant Coach Kane Jury on his appointment as New Zealand Rugby’s National Pathways Head Coach, a newly created role that oversee the coaching and development of both the New Zealand U20’S and New Zealand Secondary Schools programmes. Jury will start the role at the beginning of next month.

Jury joined the Highlanders in late 2019 and has been a driving force behind the establishment and growth of the Highlanders High Performance Programme, which has produced a significant portion of the club’s current squad over the past five years.

Highlanders GM of Rugby, Greg O’Brien, says Jury’s appointment is a natural progression for a coach who has consistently demonstrated an eye for talent and a passion for player development.

“Kane’s experience in the high‑performance space around talent identification and player development makes him the ideal person to work with young talent from around the country.

“He has coached the Highlanders U20s, our development team and at Super Rugby level. He has always demonstrated an ability to connect with and get the best out of players. We wish him well in his new role and thank him for his significant contribution to the club.”

Jury says he is excited for the opportunity and grateful for the support he has received during his time in the south.

“I am truly grateful for the many opportunities and learnings I have been given at the Highlanders. This experience has provided me with the platform to step into this newly created role with New Zealand Rugby.

The position is a good opportunity and ultimately the goal of the new role is to build a strong, connected pipeline that consistently prepares players for the demands of the professional and international game.”

With Jury’s departure, the Highlanders have welcomed Otago Assistant Coach Ryan Bambry into the coaching group for the remainder of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.

Bambry, who previously coached the Highlanders U20 side and served as Otago High Performance Development Manager for several years, will continue in his role with the Otago NPC team while contributing to the Highlanders’ campaign.

Bambry is keen to get started coaching a team that he was part of in 2006.

“I’m grateful and excited to join the Highlanders. I am determined to nail my role for a team that I have always loved, and I can't wait to represent our club and the people of the South.” 

Otago CEO Richard Kinley says the move reflects both Bambry’s growth and Otago’s commitment to developing coaching talent.

“Ryan has been a valued staff member at Otago Rugby leading our High-Performance development and Men’s Academy programme over the last 5 years. While we are sad to lose him from those roles, we are delighted to retain his services for the NPC team. It is always pleasing to see our coaches progress to the next level, and we wish Ryaan all the best at the Highlanders over the next few seasons.”

Highlanders GM of Rugby, Greg O’Brien, says promoting from within the region where possible was important.

“We are happy to have been able to promote from within our region. Ryan has coached many of the players in our squad and, having coached our U20 side, is familiar with the Highlanders culture. He will be a good fit with our club.

ENDS