Christchurch will host Super Round for the first time in 2026, marking the first time the event has been staged in New Zealand and the first major sporting fixture at the new One New Zealand Stadium.
The city, the Crusaders and Super Rugby Pacific have teamed up to bring the three-day festival of rugby, live music and family entertainment to Christchurch from 24 to 26 April, as part of Round 11 of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Ten teams will play five matches over the weekend, drawing fans from across New Zealand, Australia, Fiji and the Pacific.
The event will be one of the first opportunities for the public to experience the state-of-the-art One New Zealand Stadium, which has 25,000 seats under a fixed roof in the heart of the city.
The Crusaders will open proceedings on Friday 24 April. The following day features Anzac Day clashes, with the Hurricanes taking on the ACT Brumbies for the Captain Shout Cup, and the Blues meeting the Queensland Reds for the Sellars Dixon Medal. The weekend will conclude with another double-header on Sunday 26 April.
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger said the event was a significant milestone.
“The opening event at One New Zealand Stadium will be a major milestone in the remarkable comeback story of our city and it is great to share that with our friends and neighbours from all across the country, Australia and the Pacific. We are really proud to be able to launch this amazing venue on behalf of Christchurch and know it will be a place where great memories are made.”
Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge said the club was proud to help bring Super Round to Christchurch.
“This event is bigger than rugby, it’s a celebration of One New Zealand Stadium coming to life. I am stoked the new stadium is going to host rugby, concerts and an amazing array of community events – but there’s no better way to kick it off than recognise the DNA of this region and start with Super Round hosted by Super Rugby Pacific and the very grateful Crusaders club.”
Super Rugby Pacific chief executive Jack Mesley said the competition was looking forward to showcasing Christchurch on the international stage.
“Super Round is a celebration of what makes Super Rugby Pacific special. Fans can expect fast-paced rugby, classic rivalries, and an electric stadium atmosphere as supporters across the Pacific come together to celebrate Super Round. Hosting this event in Christchurch is a fantastic way to showcase the best of our competition. We are excited to work with the city and the Crusaders to deliver something unforgettable.”
Ticketing, travel and hospitality details will be released in the coming weeks.
