2023 Super Rugby Aupiki Draw released

First ever Matatū home games in Super Rugby Aupiki 2023

Two games on Matatū home soil are set to ignite Super Rugby Aupiki 2023 as the competition hits the ground running for its second season.

The season kicks off on 25 February with Hurricanes Poua taking on defending champs the Chiefs Manawa at Levin Domain, and Matatū facing the Blues at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin.

New Zealand Rugby has also confirmed an extended five-week schedule, featuring 10 games, semifinals and a third/fourth playoff.

The first three weeks of competition will follow a round-robin format before heading into playoffs. Semifinals will take place on 19 March, determining the two teams who will advance to the final on 25 March.

Sarah Munro, Matatū General Manager, said she was looking forward to a non-Covid impacted season.

“Last year we operated in a heavily Covid-impacted environment and trying to pull together a competition, a team and a team environment and create something new was pretty tough,” Munro said.

“Here we are in 2023 with a draw and a team, we’ve been able to get Blair and our team management locked in again, and we’re super excited that we’re able to deliver a competition for our fans and our players.”

Munro said having games in the South Island for the first time was “hugely important” for the team and their sense of belonging.

“To finally bring some games onto home soil both here in Ōtautahi Christchurch and in Ōtepoti Dunedin is just so important. It represents our brand and is a great result for our fans as well,” Munro said.