Chiefs elevate Jono Gibbes to head coach
- NZ Sports Wire
- Jul 21
- 2 min read
Former All Black and Maori All Blacks captain Jono Gibbes has been appointed as Chiefs head coach.
A respected rugby leader with deep ties to the Chiefs region, Gibbes brings a wealth of international coaching experience and a strong understanding of the Super Rugby Pacific franchise’s values and identity.
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Having already served two seasons as a Chiefs assistant coach, Gibbes steps into the role with momentum and continuity after a strong Super Rugby Pacific season.
“Being part of the organisation for the past two years has given me a real appreciation for what’s been built here and how this team has grown into a consistent, competitive unit,” Gibbes said.
“My job now is to help maintain that consistency and keep pushing to unlock the full potential of this team. We have a strong foundation and a lot of talent, so I’m excited about what we can achieve.”
A proud Waikato man, Gibbes captained both Waikato and the Chiefs, earning a combined 132 appearances.
Known for his leadership and physicality as a loose forward, he also captained the Māori All Blacks to a historic win over the British and Irish Lions in 2005. He is All Black No 1038, having played eight tests.
After retiring from playing in 2008, Gibbes quickly transitioned into coaching, taking on roles with top international clubs, including Leinster, Clermont Auvergne, La Rochelle, and Ulster.
In 2018, he led Waikato to a National Provincial Championship (NPC) title as head coach, before being appointed to lead the New Zealand Under-20s in 2023. He returned to the Chiefs ahead of the 2024 season as an assistant.
Chiefs CEO Simon Graafhuis said the franchise was proud to continue its legacy of strong leadership and commitment to developing talent within the Chiefs rugby ecosystem.
“This is a natural progression for Jono and for our coaching group,” Graafhuis said.
“He understands the fabric of this club, the importance of our provincial unions, and the aspirations of our team and community. We’re excited to move forward with Jono at the helm, and I know he’s ready to make our people proud.”
Former head coach Clayton McMillan added that the team was in superb hands.
“Jono brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a strong connection to the region. The coaching, management and playing group has a lot of continuity and cohesion, which is a strong foundation to build from.
“I have no doubt this group will lead the Chiefs to great things and continue to excite and inspire our loyal supporters, stakeholders and whānau.”
