McKenzie re-signs with Chiefs, NZ Rugby
- NZ Sports Wire
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
All Blacks and Chiefs fans can look forward to at least four more years of Damian McKenzie magic, following the star playmaker agreeing to terms on a new deal which runs through to the end of the 2029 season.
Already the Super Rugby Pacific franchise’s all-time leading points scorer, the new contract paves the way for the 29-year-old to become just the third player ever to reach 150 matches for the Chiefs, alongside Sam Cane (150) and Liam Messam (183 games).
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“I’m incredibly excited to re-sign with NZ Rugby and continue my journey with both the Chiefs and All Blacks” McKenzie said. “The opportunity to represent both teams is something that I’ll never take for granted.
"I feel like I’ve still got a lot to give to NZ Rugby and look forward to adding value where I can. I’m extremely motivated to win a Championship with the Chiefs and ultimately hope to be a part of a successful Rugby World Cup in 2027 and campaigns beyond that.”
A fan-favourite ever since his Chiefs debut in 2015, McKenzie has been in scintillating form to start the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, scoring 65 points in his opening five matches.
Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan said: “ We are delighted Damian has committed to the Chiefs and NZ Rugby long-term. It’s a significant outcome given the high level of interest he received from offshore.
"His on-field performances with the Chiefs speak volumes. He influences games the way few people can, and he will continue to add to his legacy, which would have to rank among the elite players to have ever pulled on a Chiefs jersey.”
McKenzie made his All Blacks debut against Italy as a 21-year-old in 2016, and has gone on to play in 61 tests, scoring 311 points, including 21 tries.