Gallagher Chiefs lock in Ah Kuoi

The Gallagher Chiefs have extended their contract with dynamic lock, loose forward Naitoa Ah Kuoi until the end of 2026.

Born and raised in Wellington, Ah Kuoi made the shift north to follow his rugby dream after making the Gallagher Chiefs squad in 2020. He has since joined a list filled with many Chiefs legends, playing his 50th game for the side this season.

“It’s pretty cool to be sticking around,” said Ah Kuoi. “I’ve been here since I was 20 and I’ve grown up in this place. The Chiefs have made me a better player, a better person and supported my family throughout this journey which I’m truly grateful for. At the end of the day, I just want to win a title for this province and its people. That’s it.”

Gallagher Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan said: “Naitoa is a big part of our club. He’s a strong, consistent performer and has been outstanding for us in his time with the team.

“He’s a big personality that adds a lot to the off-field culture, bringing abundant energy. His family have been a real ‘why’ for him and we are glad to have them continuing as part of the Chiefs whānau too. We are looking forward to seeing his continued development as a player and as a man.”

This week the Gallagher Chiefs face the Blues in a Battle of the Bombay’s for their final regular season match.