Memorial Park to host development match between Chiefs and Blues

Hautapu Sports will host the final match of the national development programme on Saturday when the Chiefs meet the Blues at Memorial Park.

The match will kick off at 1 pm, ahead of Hautapu Sports' Premier fixture against University (2.45pm).

The Chiefs-Blues game will be one of four at Memorial Park, with the club's development side and women's Premier team also playing at home.

The match between the Chiefs and Blues will bring to a close the eight-week national programme in which the developments sides for the Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Highlanders and Crusaders will have played five matches each.

Development squads are a mix of contracted Super Rugby players requiring game time, and emerging and developing players, including opportunities for provincial union national development contracts.

NZR high performance player development manager Matt Sexton said the aim of the programme was to provide more meaningful match opportunities for a wider group of emerging and developing players.

“The programme will provide more opportunities to players and coaches across the system while strengthening the link from provincial unions to Super Rugby," he told NZ Rugby.

“It’s a positive for players and coaches, but it’s also a valuable development tool for match officials and match management. And for fans, it provides a deeper look into the wider New Zealand talent pool and how the pathway works in practice.”Fixtures

Games to be played on Saturday April 11, 2026

Waikato Premier

Hautapu Sports v University
Memorial Park, Cambridge, 2.45pm

Waikato Development

Hautapu Sports v University
Memorial Park, Cambridge, 1pm

Waikato U-21

Hamilton Old Boys v Hautapu Sports
Willoughby Park, Hamilton, 1pm

Waikato Premier Women

Hautapu Sports/Melville  v Putaruru
Memorial Park, Cambridge, 1pm

Full season draws

Here are links to the full season draws for Hautapu Sports teams:

READ MORE: Season draws for Hautapu Sports' Premier and Development teams >>>>

READ MORE: Draw available for Waikato Rugby's U-21 season >>>>

READ MORE: Season draws for Hautapu Sports/Melville Women's Premier team >>>>

Learn more about Hautapu Sports' senior rugby programme

READ MORE: How to play for Hautapu Sports Club, and to register online >>>>