Kaipo Olsen-Baker

BIOGRAPHY

Black Fern #233

Originally from Gisborne, Kaipo Olsen-Baker has long been identified as a player capable of reaching the highest honours. A standout schoolgirl in both sevens and XVs for Manukura School, she was known for her explosive power, strength over the ball, and sharp footwork.

After returning from injury, she was a standout performer for Hurricanes Poua during the 2022 Super Rugby Aupiki season. That form earned her a Black Ferns debut later that year against Australia in the Pacific Four Series in Tauranga.

Olsen-Baker was unlucky to miss selection for the Rugby World Cup due to injury but responded with an impressive Farah Palmer Cup campaign for Manawatū in 2023. She then made the move south to Christchurch for the 2024 Super Rugby Aupiki season with Matatū, where her performances once again caught the attention of national selectors and led to her return to the Black Ferns.

In 2025, Olsen-Baker continued to build on her international experience, becoming an increasingly influential presence in the Black Ferns loose forward trio. She made her Women’s Rugby World Cup debut where she suffered a minor injury, however her remarkable comeback saw her earn Player of the Match v South Africa.