The Gallagher Chiefs have today confirmed that hometown hero Quinn Tupaea has re-signed with the club and New Zealand Rugby (NZR) through to the end of 2027.
An 18-Test All Black, Tupaea has become a stalwart of Chiefs rugby with his powerful and dynamic playing style and continues to embody the spirit, talent and leadership that define the Chiefs midfield.
Having played for Waikato since his debut in 2018 Tupaea burst onto the Super Rugby scene in 2020. He immediately made his mark establishing himself as a try-scoring threat. That year saw him honoured by the club as the Gallagher Chiefs’ Rookie of the Year.
Quinn went on to debut for the All Blacks in 2021 where he gained 14 caps for the national side before an injury in 2022 forced him sideline for a full year.
Returning to the Gallagher Chiefs in 2024 Tupaea appeared in 14 of 17 games leading him to celebrate his 50th appearance for the club in 2025 – the occasion punctuated by two match-winning tries.
Gaining a call up for the All Blacks again for this year’s Lipovitan-D July Series and Rugby Championship campaigns, Quinn further solidified his place in the squad with a decisive try against South Africa at Eden Park.
“Quinn is a unique player and his resilience, passion and leadership over the past few years has shown the kind of character he is” said Head Coach of the Gallagher Chiefs Jono Gibbes. “To see what he’s overcome and return to perform at such a high level speaks to his commitment to the jersey, his team and the community. We’re thrilled to have him re-sign and continue to be a big part of the future.”
Tupaea said whānau was always front of mind in his career decisions along with unfinished business at the Chiefs. “The motivation to win a title for the Club was big. I had some pretty big conversations with my family and partner. I have a lot of good mates here and I back Jono as a coach so yeah, pretty happy.”
With Tupaea locked in for 2026 the Gallagher Chiefs solidify their depth and experience in midfield as they look ahead to next year’s DHL Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
Fans will get their chance to see Tupaea in action all through the 30th year of Super Rugby with 6 home games at FMG Stadium recently announced.
