JASON HOLLAND APPOINTED HEAD COACH FROM 2027

The Blues can confirm the appointment of Jason Holland as head coach for the 2027 Super Rugby season, on a three-year contract.

Holland brings a wealth of experience across both domestic and international rugby, including the Hurricanes, where he has served in multiple coaching roles including head coach from 2020 to 2023.

He has also contributed at the highest level as an assistant coach with the All Blacks, further strengthening his credentials as one of the game’s leading coaches.

The former Manawatū and Taranaki representative also enjoyed a successful playing career in New Zealand before he made 102 appearances for top Irish club, Munster, between 1999 and 2008. 

Blues Chairman Don Mackinnon said the appointment represents a significant step forward for the club.

“We are thrilled to secure Jason as our head coach from 2027. He is a quality person with outstanding rugby intellect and a proven track record of developing teams and players,” Mackinnon said.

“His experience at both Super Rugby and international level, including with the All Blacks, makes him an exceptional candidate to lead the Blues into our next chapter.

“Just as importantly, this appointment provides long-term certainty and stability for our club, our players, and our fans.”

The appointment comes at a time when the Blues are building strong momentum, with a talented core group already in place and a number of emerging players committed to the club’s future.

Blues CEO Karl Budge said it was fantastic to secure the appointment of Holland.

“We are really looking forward to welcoming Jason to the club, but know he still has a job to do with the Hurricanes first, and we fully respect and support that. We expect him to continue giving everything to his current team, as we would expect of any professional of his calibre.”

Holland said he was energised by the opportunity ahead while reaffirming his focus on his current role for the rest of this season.

“The opportunity to join the Blues from 2027 is incredibly exciting. It’s a club with a proud history and I see huge potential to add to that legacy,” he said.

“When the time comes I’m really looking forward to connecting with everyone at club including players, staff, fans and the wider community.”