AFEAKI RETURNS TO BLUES AS ASSISTANT COACH

The Blues have announced the appointment of Ben Afeaki as an assistant coach for the 2027 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season.

A former North Harbour prop, Afeaki brings a wealth of high performance experience to the coaching group, having previously served as Blues assistant coach from 2018 to 2022.

In 2025, he led the Blues Under 20 programme at the Super Rugby U20 Tournament, helping guide the next generation of players while strengthening the club’s development pathway.

As a player, Afeaki also ran out for 36 Super Rugby games with the Chiefs and earned a Test cap for the All Blacks in 2013.

He also played for the New Zealand Under 20s and Māori All Blacks, with his playing career widely respected before it was cut short following a serious concussion.

Afeaki said returning to the Blues was a special opportunity.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to the Blues and work alongside a talented coaching group and playing squad. This club has a proud history, and I’m looking forward to helping our players continue to grow,” Afeaki said.

Blues GM Rugby Murray Williams welcomed Afeaki back to the organisation.

“Ben knows what it takes to coach at the highest level and understands the standards required to succeed in this environment,” he said.

“He has strong relationships throughout the Blues pathway and brings excellent technical knowledge and leadership to our coaching group. We’re excited to have him back.”