Stadium Taranaki set for Gallagher Chiefs v Hurricanes Super Rugby blockbuster
You’ve been calling for it, and now the big Super Rugby Pacific match-up that everyone wants is coming to Stadium Taranaki.
Easter Weekend 2027 will see the Gallagher Chiefs take on the Hurricanes at Stadium Taranaki on Sunday 28 March, bringing a blockbuster DHL Super Rugby Pacific clash to New Plymouth.
Proudly hosted by Taranaki Rugby in partnership with the New Plymouth District Council, the match will feature strong Taranaki connections across both squads. The Gallagher Chiefs will be a major draw for local rugby fans, while the Hurricanes also have deep roots in the region, setting the stage for a memorable Easter weekend showdown.
NPDC Manager Venues & Events Chade Julie says the fixture will be a milestone moment for Stadium Taranaki.
"We love our rugby here. We've been hearing it everywhere, at games, events and around town. People want to see top-level rugby at the stadium, and Chiefs versus Hurricanes is the match-up they've been asking for.
"This will be the biggest game held at the venue since its redevelopment. With fans expected from across Taranaki and further afield, we're looking forward to seeing the stands full, the stadium buzzing and the region on show for a fantastic Easter weekend," says Chade.
Gallagher Chiefs CEO Simon Graafhuis says the opportunity to bring a major derby back to Taranaki is one the team is relishing.
"We are so excited to be heading back to Taranaki, especially to take such a big NZ derby. The rivalry amongst fans in Taranaki is huge, but we know our Gallagher Chiefs supporters will get behind the boys and make this one of the games of the year."
TRFU CEO Jimmy Fastier says, “The Gallagher Chiefs v Hurricanes - this is the unmissable fixture that Taranaki fans have been waiting for.”
“Stadium Taranaki, the best regional sports venue in the country, will be hosting the Super Rugby Pacific grand final rematch, with a strong All Blacks and Yarrows Taranaki Bulls flavour running through both squads. An afternoon kick-off on Easter weekend makes it perfect for families to be part of the action. We can't wait to welcome the Chiefs, Hurricanes and rugby fans to Taranaki.”
The match kicks off at 4pm on Sunday 28 March, with ticketing details to be announced. Fans can stay up to date with ticketing and event information through the TRFU website and social media channels, Hello NP on Facebook and Instagram, or the New Plymouth Event Venues website.
The event has been made possible thanks to funding from Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki's New Plymouth Major Events Fund.
Jimmy says the teams will provide the spectacle, but it's the fans who will create the atmosphere.
"We know the Gallagher Chiefs and Hurricanes will bring the energy on the field. Now we're calling on rugby fans to fill the stands and bring the noise."
To register your interest in corporate hospitality for the match contact TRFU Commercial Operations Lead Shailen Sukdhoe at shailen@trfu.co.nz
