Super Rugby Aupiki is back and Chiefs Manawa are ready. In a revised timeline the 2026 season kicks off on Saturday 13 June, aligning with the wider NZ women’s rugby calendar and delivering more afternoon footy across the motu for fans.
This year spans six rounds, a Grand Final, and a Trans‑Tasman Champions Final -building on 2025’s momentum with tweaks designed to lift the experience for players, fans, and our communities.
A highlight is Super Rugby Aupiki: All In. A Round Three festival where all four teams will play back‑to‑back in Chiefs Country at Navigation Homes Stadium, Pukekohe. One venue, one blockbuster Saturday of professional rugby action. With new addition Carys Dallinger joining the team, and the recent announcement of legend Kelly Brazier joining the coaching staff Chiefs Manawa is looking to claim the 2026 Super Rugby Aupiki title.
Chiefs Rugby members get access to all home Aupiki games, and can lock in their seats today. Individual game tickets will be on sale closer to the season.
Chiefs Manawa 2026 fixtures
Round One – Sat 13 Jun, 4:05pm
Matatū vs Chiefs Manawa, One NZ Stadium, Christchurch
Round Two – Sat 20 Jun, 2:05pm
Chiefs Manawa vs Blues, Fred Jones Park, Hamilton
Round Three (ALL IN) – Sat 27 Jun, 5:05pm
Chiefs Manawa vs Hurricanes Poua, Navigation Homes Stadium, Pukekohe
Round Four – Sat 4 Jul, 12:35pm
Chiefs Manawa vs Matatū, Fred Jones Park, Hamilton
Round Five – Fri 10 Jul, 4:35pm
Blues vs Chiefs Manawa, Semenoff Stadium, Whangārei
Round Six – Sat 18 Jul, 12:35pm
Hurricanes Poua vs Chiefs Manawa, Maidstone Park, Upper Hutt
Super Rugby Aupiki Final – Sat 25 Jul, Kick‑off TBC
Rank 1 vs Rank 2, Venue TBC
Super Rugby Trans‑Tasman Champions Final – Sat 1 Aug, Kick‑off TBC
Super Rugby Aupiki Winner vs Super W Winner – Australian venue
How to watch: Every round of Super Rugby Aupiki, plus the Grand Final and the Trans‑Tasman Champions Final, will be broadcast live on Sky.
