nib BLUES NAME STRONG 2026 AUPIKI SQUAD

The nib Blues have announced a powerful squad for the 2026 Super Rugby Aupiki season.

Following back-to-back championships, the nib Blues enter the new season knowing they will be a team with a target on their backs.

Headlined by a strong core of returning Black Ferns, the squad reflects continuity, depth and the evolution of a programme that has become synonymous with high performance.

Among the headline inclusions for 2026 is talented loose forward Amarante Sititi, whose athleticism and physicality add to a dominant forward pack.

Japanese international prop Nijiho Nagata also returns to join the squad after missing 2025 due to international duties, bringing valuable experience to the front row where she can cover all three positions.

The Blues loose forward group sees the return of Tafito Lafaele, making the switch back to rugby after spending some time in the NRLW. Tafito last played for the Blues in 2024 and had been in the Black Ferns set up, so it’s exciting to attract such a young talent back into the rugby space.

The Blues backline continues to showcase speed, creativity and finishing ability led by Ruahei Demant, while midfielders Sylvia Brunt and Hollyrae Mete-Renata provide a strong combination of power and skill.

Out wide, the squad features an exciting group of experienced and new finishers with speed to burn. Having the likes of Mererangi Paul and Braxton Sorenson-McGee available as utility weapons adds a huge asset.

nib Blues head coach Willie Walker said it was exciting to finalise a diverse and talented squad of 30 players.

“We’ve worked hard to retain the core of what’s made this group successful over the past few seasons, while also identifying areas where we can evolve with more young talent from our region,” he said.

“A few seasons ago we had a big focus on growing our base and talent from our region and it’s been great to see those players now go on to higher honours and still be a part of our group.

“There’s a real hunger and love for this team. Success doesn’t guarantee anything in this competition. With a short competition you can’t afford to be complacent, and you have to bring your best every week as it can come down to one game or points difference to determine whether you’re in the final or not.

“We’re not shying away from what’s in front of us. The opportunity to create something special is there, but we know it’s going to take from one to thirty to get us there.

“This group is excited, connected and ready to earn everything again this season.”

2026 nib BLUES SQUAD

PROPS
Aldora Itunu (Auckland)
Nijiho Nagata (Pearls, Japan)
Cilia-Marie Po'e-Tofaeono (Auckland)
Harono Te Iringa (Counties)
Cheyenne Tuli-Fale (Auckland)
Chryss Viliko (Auckland)

HOOKERS
Danny-Elle Alefosio Fesolai (Auckland)
Grace Leaso Gago Tiatia (Counties)
Atlanta Lolohea (Canterbury)

LOCKS
Eloise Blackwell (Auckland)
Maiakawanakaulani Roos (Auckland)
Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu (Auckland)

LOOSE FORWARDS
Mele Taufa Bason (Auckland)
Lemalu Dajian Brown (Auckland)
Zara Feaunati (Auckland)
Tafito Lafaele (Auckland)
Liana Mikaele-Tu'u (Auckland)
Amarante Sititi (Auckland)

HALFBACKS
Ffion Penney (Counties)
Tara Turner (Northland/Counties)

FIRST FIVES
Ruahei Demant (Auckland)
Ella Henderson (North Harbour)

MIDFIELDERS
Sylvia Brunt (Auckland)
Hollyrae Mete-Renata (Auckland)

OUTSIDE BACKS
Jaymie Kolose (Counties)
Danii Mafoe (Auckland)
Sariyah Paitai (Counties)
Mererangi Paul (Counties)
Braxton Sorensen-McGee (Auckland)
Katelyn Vahaakolo (Auckland)