The Gallagher Chiefs have confirmed an exciting return to Tauranga for their 2026 Super Rugby pre-season campaign, announcing a highly anticipated match against Super Rugby Pacific rivals, the Fijian Drua. The fixture promises an action-packed afternoon of elite rugby, community engagement, and family-friendly entertainment, reinforcing the Chiefs’ strong connection with regional supporters.
The pre-season match will take place on Friday, 30 January 2026, at Sir Gordon Tietjens Field, Blake Park, with kickoff scheduled for 3:00pm. The early start time has been designed to ensure accessibility for families, junior rugby players, and fans of all ages, making it one of the most inclusive rugby events of the summer.
Gallagher Chiefs vs Fijian Drua
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Match: Gallagher Chiefs vs Fijian Drua
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Competition: Super Rugby Pacific – Pre-Season
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Date: Friday, 30 January 2026
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Venue: Sir Gordon Tietjens Field, Blake Park, Tauranga
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Kickoff: 3:00pm (local time)
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Focus: Community engagement, squad preparation, family-friendly event
The Chiefs’ return to Tauranga highlights the franchise’s ongoing commitment to taking top-level rugby beyond major stadiums and into the heart of regional communities.
Gallagher Chiefs – 2026 Pre-Season Fixture
| Date | Match | Venue | Kickoff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday, 30 January 2026 | Gallagher Chiefs vs Fijian Drua | Sir Gordon Tietjens Field, Blake Park, Tauranga | 3:00pm |
More pre-season and regular-season fixtures are expected to be confirmed as the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific calendar is finalised.
Read more: Gallagher Chiefs to recreate history with Jordan Luck Band at season opener
A Special Return to Tauranga
Tauranga has long been a stronghold for rugby in New Zealand, and the Chiefs’ decision to host a pre-season match at Blake Park reflects the city’s growing importance within the franchise’s wider catchment area. Sir Gordon Tietjens Field, named after the legendary sevens coach, is a fitting venue for a match that blends high-performance rugby with grassroots spirit.
By bringing Super Rugby action to Tauranga, the Chiefs provide local fans with a rare opportunity to see their heroes up close without the need to travel to larger centres. The move also strengthens ties with Bay of Plenty rugby communities, schools, clubs, and families who form the backbone of the sport.
Chiefs vs Fijian Drua: Entertaining Styles Collide
The matchup against the Fijian Drua adds significant excitement to the pre-season schedule. Since their introduction to Super Rugby, the Drua have quickly built a reputation as one of the competition’s most entertaining and unpredictable teams.
Known for their explosive running, offloading skills, and physical presence, the Drua consistently challenge opposition structures and discipline. For the Chiefs, facing the Drua in pre-season provides an excellent test of defensive organisation, adaptability, and match fitness.
Recent encounters between the two sides have delivered fast-paced, high-scoring rugby, and even in a pre-season setting, fans can expect intensity, flair, and competitive edge from both squads.
Why Pre-Season Matches Matter
Although pre-season matches do not contribute to competition points, they play a crucial role in shaping a team’s season. For coaching staff, these fixtures offer valuable insights into player combinations, tactical execution, and squad depth.
Supporters attending the Tauranga match are likely to see:
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Established Chiefs leaders returning to action
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New signings making their first appearances
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Young and emerging players pushing for selection
Pre-season rugby also allows players to build confidence, adapt to game tempo, and develop cohesion before the demands of the regular Super Rugby Pacific season begin.
A Family-Friendly Rugby Experience
One of the standout aspects of the Tauranga fixture is its strong focus on families and community involvement. A 3:00pm kickoff ensures the match is accessible for children and avoids the late-night finish often associated with professional rugby.
Blake Park’s relaxed environment, combined with the pre-season atmosphere, makes the event ideal for first-time attendees and casual fans. Matchday activities are expected to include community engagement initiatives, junior rugby involvement, and opportunities for fans to connect with players.
For young aspiring rugby players in the Bay of Plenty, watching Super Rugby athletes live can be both inspiring and motivating, reinforcing pathways from grassroots to the professional game.
Strengthening Regional Connections
The Chiefs’ regional strategy has consistently emphasised inclusion, accessibility, and community presence. Hosting matches outside major stadiums not only broadens the fan base but also strengthens the identity of the franchise across its entire region.
Events like the Tauranga pre-season match deliver economic benefits to the local area, support hospitality and tourism, and showcase regional venues as capable hosts of elite sporting events.
For the Chiefs rugby , maintaining strong regional ties is central to long-term sustainability and supporter loyalty.
Fijian Drua’s Growing Influence
The Fijian Drua have brought a unique and vibrant dimension to Super Rugby Pacific. Their inclusion has strengthened Pacific representation in the competition and elevated its entertainment value.
Pre-season matches in New Zealand are an important part of the Drua’s preparation, helping players adjust to conditions and build momentum. The Tauranga fixture allows the Drua to showcase Fijian rugby culture while continuing to develop cohesion ahead of the 2026 season.
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