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Former All Blacks assistant coach Jason Holland has been appointed head coach of the Auckland Blues on a three-year deal starting from 2027, the Super Rugby side announced on Saturday.
He will replace Vern Cotter, will leave at the end of the current season to take up a similar role with Australia’s Queensland Reds, succeeding Les Kiss.
The appointment marks another step in Holland’s 18-year coaching career, which has included roles with Munster, the Canterbury Crusaders, and the Wellington Hurricanes, where he also served as head coach.
He previously worked as an assistant under former All Blacks coach Scott Robertson before opting not to renew his contract.
Robertson was later dismissed by New Zealand Rugby and replaced by Dave Rennie.
Reacting to the appointment, Holland said he remains focused on his current role with the Hurricanes but described the opportunity to join the Blues as an exciting next step, noting the club’s strong history and future potential.
“But the opportunity to join the Blues from 2027 is incredibly exciting,” Holland said.
“It’s a club with a proud history and I see huge potential to add to that legacy.”
Meanwhile, the Hurricanes maintained their position at the top of the table after a dominant win over the Otago Highlanders, recording a 50-7 victory in Dunedin.
Winger Fehi Fineanganofo scored a hat-trick, while All Blacks scrum-half Cam Roigard added two tries in a performance that showcased the team’s attacking strength.
Midfielder Jordie Barrett said the team approached the game with intensity, noting that they aimed to remain clinical throughout and prevent their opponents from gaining momentum.
