Four marquee signings set the tone for a later starting Super Rugby Aupiki season
Matatū lock in Maia Joseph
Matatū have secured one of New Zealand’s most promising young halfbacks, re-signing Maia Joseph. Joseph, who made her Black Ferns debut in 2023, has quickly become known for her sharp decisionmaking, and tactical kicking range. In the 2025 season, she ranked among the top performers for boxkick metres, and averaged more than 60 passes per match — a testament to her influence on tempo and structure. Her signing gives Matatū stability in a pivotal position and reinforces their commitment to building around a homegrown playmaker.
Hurricanes Poua make a statement by signing Renee Holmes
In one of the most significant transfers in Aupiki history, Renee Holmes has moved from Chiefs Manawa to Hurricanes Poua. Holmes, a fullback with more than 25 Black Ferns caps, brings a blend of domestic and international pedigree to the Poua. During the 2025 season, Holmes finished as Super Rugby Aupiki’s third leading pointscorer and consistently ranked among the top players in defenders beaten and line breaks.
Chiefs Manawa sign 2023 Wallaroos Rookie of the Year Carys Dallinger
Chiefs Manawa have strengthened their playmaking stocks with the signing of Carys Dallinger, the former Reds first fiveeighth and the 2023 Wallaroos Rookie of the Year. Dallinger has become one of the most composed young playmakers in the transTasman game, known for her calmness under pressure and ability to steer a team around the park. Her arrival adds strategic depth to Manawa’s attack and positions her as a central figure in their 2026 campaign.
Blues confirm Mererangi Paul as their marquee signing
The Blues have confirmed Mererangi Paul as their marquee signing, securing a dynamic outside back with experience across both Black Ferns Sevens and XVs. In 2025, Paul ranked among the competition’s top tryscorers, her versatility across wing and fullback makes her a cornerstone of the Blues’ ambitions heading into the new season.
Aupiki’s talent pool deepens ahead of a later start
With the competition shifting to a 13 June kick-off, clubs have used the extended leadin to secure elite talent and reshape their rosters. The marquee signings of Joseph, Holmes, Dallinger, and Paul reflect a competition continuing to grow in depth, professionalism, and star power. The Super Rugby Aupiki draw will be announced next week, further setting the stage for a compelling 2026 season.
