Chiefs Rugby first home pre-season 2026 against the Fijian Drua.

The Chiefs Rugby, who were the Super Rugby Pacific runners-up for two consecutive seasons, have revealed their first pre-season home game for the 2026 season, set against the Fijian Drua. Last year, these two teams clashed once, with the Drua emerging victorious, 28-24 at Churchill Park in Lautoka.

This season, however, the teams will face off during pre-season, with the Drua heading to Sir Gordon Tietjens field at Blake Park in Mount Maunganui for a 3pm matchup on January 30. Chiefs CEO Simon Graafhuis expressed excitement about hosting the Drua in Tauranga, especially after a fantastic turnout during their regular season game against the Force in 2025.

Chiefs Rugby match will be played on 30 January 2026

It promises to be a high-energy, community-packed afternoon of Super Rugby action. The match will be played on Friday 30 January at Sir Gordon Tietjens field, Blake Park kicking off at a family friendly 3pm.

Today’s announcement follows the Blues’ revelation of several pre-season matches last week, including a clash with the Hurricanes on January 30 at Sacred Heart College and another against the Crusaders on Waitangi Day at Takapuna Rugby Club.

Takapuna Rugby Club Manager Sandra Southworth shared her enthusiasm for welcoming the Blues once more, noting that they have hosted them for pre-season games in the past.

“We consistently see an incredible turnout when the Blues play at our venue, and we are eager to experience it again,” she remarked in a statement from the Blues.

“Onewa Domain offers an ideal setting to witness rugby up close – you can sense the impact, hear the shouts, and immerse yourself in the energy and atmosphere. It promises to be an outstanding Waitangi Day for Harbour rugby.”