The 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season kicks off in Dunedin on Friday, February 13, with the Highlanders hosting defending champions the Crusaders in a southern derby.

Later that night, attention turns to Sydney where the NSW Waratahs face the Queensland Reds at Allianz Stadium.

Saturday, February 14 continues with the Fijian Drua opening their campaign at home in Lautoka against Moana Pasifika.

The round also includes the Blues hosting the Chiefs at Eden Park, while the ACT Brumbies meet the Western Force in Canberra.

The season launch was held in Auckland, bringing together players past and present to mark 30 years since Super Rugby began.

The 11 clubs were represented by Patrick Tuipulotu (Blues), Patrick Pelligrini (Moana Pasifika), Tom Wright (ACT Brumbies), Manasa Mataele (Fijian Drua), Du’Plessis Kirifi (Hurricanes), Nic Dolly (Western Force), Codie Taylor (Crusaders), Fraser McReight (Queensland Reds), Wallace Sititi (Chiefs), Eamon Doyle (NSW Waratahs) and Fabian Holland (Highlanders).

Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley said the anniversary season would reflect on the competition’s history while looking ahead to its future, with clubs planning celebrations across the year.

For Hibiscus Coast rugby fans, the opening weekend includes a prime-time Eden Park clash on Saturday night as the Blues begin their 2026 campaign against the Chiefs.

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