The Gisborne-born 24-year-old’s contract extension comes off the back of a standout performance at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, that saw her named in World Rugby Women’s 15s Dream Team of the Year.
With 19 Tests since her Black Ferns debut in 2022, Olsen-Baker said the opportunity to commit to a long-term contract had come at the ideal time.
“I’m enjoying my rugby right now and really grateful to lock-in the next three years doing what I love. Being in the Black Ferns environment has helped me grow massively, not just as a player but as a person too. I want to continue learning, contributing and challenging myself every day.
“There’s something special building within this group. To have a Lions Series here at home in New Zealand next year, followed by a World Cup in Australia is exciting and something I’d love to be a part of.”
Black Ferns Head Coach Whitney Hansen said:
“Kaipo is an explosive, powerful loose forward with an incredible presence on the field and has a genuine ability to change a game. She’s proven to have an ability to step up in the big moments as we saw at the World Cup in England and during our recent Pacific Four Series. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Kaipo’s growth throughout the rugby pathway and am excited about what’s ahead of her, as this is just the beginning of what is already a special legacy.”
Olsen-Baker’s rugby career to date has been a steady rise since the Manukura High School product debuted for Manawatū in the Farah Palmer Cup in 2019.
She was named NZR women’s Player of the Year in 2024 after a stellar season for Matatū in Super Rugby Aupiki, and was the Rugby Players Association (RPA) Player of the Year in 2025.
