A new wave of talent joins a strong returning core for Matatū in 2026
Matatū has confirmed its squad for the 2026 Super Rugby Aupiki season, bringing together a strong core of returning talent and exciting new athletes.
Seven players are joining the environment for the first time, two are returning after time away, and a core group of 21 are continuing to build on their time in the Matatū jersey already.
Head Coach Blair Baxter says this year’s team reflects the identity Matatū has worked hard to build.
“Our returning players know who we are and what matters to us, and our new athletes have come in with genuine hunger to grow and contribute. They’re all proud to represent the South Island and proud to represent Matatū and all we stand for”
The new faces for 2026 include a mix of youth, experience and raw athletic talent: Alena Saili, Elinor-Plum King, Maia Davis, Paris Lokotui, Poppy Baxter, Santo Taumata and Wikitoria Rogers all step into their first Matatū campaign with their own unique backgrounds.
Two more players – Holly Greenway and Natalie Delamere – return to the squad after playing roles in the 2024 season, ready to make their mark on 2026.
Among the newcomers is 23-year-old Paris Lokotui.
After helping the Mainland Tactix win their first ANZ Premiership title and reaching 50 domestic netball matches, she’s chosen to pursue a new path in rugby. Her decision is shaped not only by ambition but by her roots, with her father, Tukulua Lokotui, having represented Tonga at two Rugby World Cups.
Baxter says Lokotui’s arrival brings real excitement to the group.
“Paris is such a versatile athlete. Her background gives her a competitive edge, and we’re really looking forward to supporting her as she finds her voice in this game”
The wider squad carries impressive depth, with seven current Black Ferns in the mix who have been named in the squad for this month’s Pacific Four Series (PAC4) in the USA and Australia: Prop Maddi Robinson, locks Laura Bayfield and Chelsea Bremner, and loose forward Kaipo Olsen‑Baker.
In the backs, Maia Joseph, Hannah King and Amy du Plessis are all returning for 2026 adding depth and experience to the Matatū backline.
Marcelle Parkes will return after a strong 2025 season, Elinor-Plum King who has come to Matatū from Hurricanes Poua and Holly Greenway are all in the Black Ferns wider training group.
Fans will be excited to see 2026 Captain Grace Brooker back playing rugby union after a stint with Essendon in the AFL Women’s competition, along with many familiar faces who all bring vital experience and a strong sense of connection to the Matatū identity. Their familiarity with the club and each other provides a stable foundation for the season ahead.
The 2026 squad is deeply tied to the South Island, with players representing unions from Southland to Northland. That regional spread has always been part of what makes Matatū unique, and Baxter says our athletes never forget who they’re playing for.
“This team is connected to our people, and that connection drives us. We talk a lot about identity and purpose, and every player in this group understands what it means to represent Matatū. We want our fans to feel proud of us every time we take the field,” says Baxter.
There’s excitement building and this group is ready to prove themselves come Saturday 13 June for Round 1 of Super Rugby Aupiki.
