Whether Taranaki locals are Gallagher Chiefs or Hurricanes fans, they will be able to cheer in the stands of Yarrow Stadium when the teams meet on 1 February 2025 for their first pre-season match of the year. 

It’s been 11 years since Taranaki changed their Super Rugby club allegiance from Hurricanes to the Chiefs Rugby Club, with many locals still on the fence about who they now support. 

Chiefs CEO Simon Graafhuis said: “We are glad to be bringing Super Rugby back to Taranaki. They are one of our proud provincial unions that have produced a significant number of Gallagher Chiefs players with great success in recent years, winning NPC last season and, most recently, the Ranfurly Shield. 

“Games between the Gallagher Chiefs and Hurricanes are always a good contest, and it should be a great occasion with the strong rivalry between the two teams and their respective fans.”

Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee is excited to be taking on the Gallagher Chiefs in Taranaki.  

“There’s a lot of great rivalry up there between Chiefs and Hurricanes fans, which is sure to make for an exciting game of rugby.  

“Taking the game to the wider Super Rugby community is really special, and it’s a great way for both teams to connect with their supporters, whether they back the Chiefs or the Hurricanes,” said Lee. 

With the support of Venture Taranaki, Taranaki Rugby CEO Jimmy Fastier is also thrilled to have the two powerhouse teams heading back to the region. 

“This is a rare opportunity for the Taranaki community to see two first-class Super Rugby squads and a host of Yarrows Taranaki Bulls go head-to-head in their backyard, Yarrow Stadium. 

“We expect high demand for grandstand tickets, so encourage fans to get in early once tickets go on sale.” 

Many well-known local players are set to feature in the games including Bradley Slater, Kini Naholo, Arese Poliko, Tupou Vaa’i and Kaylum Boshier. 

The game will kick off at 2pm for an epic day of summer afternoon rugby. Teams will announce when tickets and corporate hospitality options are on sale in due course.  

Match Info:

Gallagher Chiefs v Hurricanes

Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth

Saturday 1 February 2025, 2pm kick-off