Quinn Tupaea re-signs with the Gallagher Chiefs
Explosive midfielder Quinn Tupaea has extended his contract with the Gallagher Chiefs until the end of 2025.
The 14-test All Black has impressed throughout his career, captaining the New Zealand Secondary Schools team in 2018 and representing New Zealand in the World Rugby U20 Championships the following year.
In 2020 Tupaea debuted for the Gallagher Chiefs during the opening round and was awarded Rookie of the Year for his outstanding performances. He made his debut for the Māori All Blacks later that year, followed by his All Blacks debut in 2021.
Unfortunately, the devastating injury to Tupaea’s knee during the Bledisloe Cup test last year required surgery making him unable to play DHL Super Rugby Pacific in 2023.
Gallagher Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan said: “Quinn is a quality footballer whose power, skill and competitiveness add a lot to our environment”.
“It was undoubtedly difficult for Quinn being side-lined through Super Rugby, watching his mates go to work and missing opportunities to showcase his talent. But he demonstrated a huge amount of grit, diligence and leadership through that period, and offered an unwavering amount of off-field support to coaches, management and our younger players in particular.”
Tupaea was recognised by his teammates with the Mana Kotiate Award for his contributions to the team at the end-of-season Chiefs Rugby Club awards night.
“He is looking strong with Waikato and time back in the saddle through the NPC should have him primed to go for our 2024 season. We look forward to having him back amongst our classy midfield contingent and have no doubt he will be a significant player for the Gallagher Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby in the years to come,” said McMillan.
Tupaea is excited to be back with the Gallagher Chiefs after missing the 2023 season.
"I feel I have a lot to give to the club and can’t wait to be back out on the field in the Chiefs colours. We have a great squad so I’m pumped to see what we can do over the next couple of seasons.”
Tupaea completes the Gallagher Chiefs midfield alongside fellow All Black Anton Lienert-Brown, Rameka Poihipi, Gideon Wrampling and rookie Daniel Rona. The full Gallagher Chiefs squad will be announced later this year.
