Hurricanes

The Hurricanes are Wellington’s Super Rugby Pacific franchise, representing the greater Wellington, Manawatu, Whanganui, and Horowhenua-Kapiti rugby regions. Known for their traditionally attacking style of rugby, the Hurricanes have produced some of the most exciting players in New Zealand rugby history and won their maiden Super Rugby title in 2016.

Club History

The Hurricanes were founding members of Super Rugby in 1996, and while their early years were marked by inconsistency, the franchise always produced memorable attacking rugby. The team’s identity was shaped by a succession of brilliant backs including Christian Cullen, Tana Umaga, Cory Jane, and Julian Savea. However, it was not until 2016 that the Hurricanes finally won their first Super Rugby title, defeating the Lions in the final under the coaching of Chris Boyd. That team featured the extraordinary talents of Beauden Barrett, Dane Coles, TJ Perenara, and Ardie Savea.

The Hurricanes have been consistent contenders since, reaching the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific final where they were narrowly defeated by the Blues. The franchise’s commitment to attacking rugby and developing exciting players has ensured they remain one of the most watchable teams in the competition.

Recent Form

The Hurricanes enter the 2026 season with a strong squad anchored by the world-class talents of Ardie Savea, one of the greatest loose forwards in rugby history. The forward pack provides a powerful platform, while the backline continues the Hurricanes’ tradition of flair and creativity. Under coach Clark Laidlaw, the team has maintained its entertaining brand of rugby while adding greater defensive structure. The Hurricanes’ run to the 2024 final demonstrated that they remain genuine title contenders.

Key Players

Ardie Savea (No. 8) - Widely regarded as one of the best players in world rugby, Savea’s explosive power, skill set, and ability to influence games from the back of the scrum make him the Hurricanes’ most valuable player and a generational talent.

Jordie Barrett (Centre) - A versatile back capable of playing fullback, centre, or fly-half, Barrett’s goalkicking, tactical awareness, and physicality make him one of the most complete players in New Zealand rugby.

Home Ground

Sky Stadium (formerly Westpac Stadium) in Wellington is the home of the Hurricanes. With a capacity of 34,500, the venue sits on the Wellington waterfront and provides a dramatic backdrop for Super Rugby matches. Wellington’s famously windy conditions add an extra element to matches at Sky Stadium, and the passionate Wellington rugby community creates an electric atmosphere for home games.

Honours

• 2016 — Super Rugby champions, defeating Lions
• 2024 — Super Rugby Pacific runners-up