The excitement surrounding the competition was electric, with coaches and players from each of the four clubs, and media a buzz as they discussed the upcoming season.
New Zealand Rugby Women’s High Performance Manager Hannah Porter said the launch was just the start of what is expected to be an incredible competition ahead for fans.
“We have all witnessed the buzz women’s rugby brings following the Rugby World Cup, today that atmosphere descended on Eden Rugby Club. Last year we saw a small snippet of Sky Super Rugby Aupiki’s potential and this years it’s a five week long competition which means the teams can build into each weekend. Our coaches and wāhine are eager to get out on the field, compete against one another and showcase to fans their skills and talent.”
"There is no shortage of rivalry between the teams and today we witnessed some fierce competition as players were challenged to a selection of activities. We are looking forward to New Zealanders supporting their teams at home and seeing what this competition has to offer," Porter added.
Teams will round out their preparation with their final pre-season fixtures taking place next weekend, the Blues and Chiefs Manawa will take part in a game of three halves, alongside the NSW Waratahs, kicking off at 2.40pm at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe on Friday 17 February. While the Hurricanes Poua and Matatū will go head-to-head at Poririua Park on Saturday 18 February at 11.30am.
In the opening weekend, Hurricanes Poua go up against defending champions Chiefs Manawa in Levin at 2.05pm, on Saturday 25 February, while Matatū take on the Blues at Forsyth Barr Stadium, in a double header clash at 4.45pm, on Saturday 25 February.
Teams will descend on Hamilton in a finals feast where they will compete for final standings in the last weekend of March.
Sky Television proudly sponsors the competition and will broadcast all Sky Super Rugby Aupiki matches on Sky Television.
Super Rugby Aupiki at a glance:
Season opener:
Saturday 25 February: Hurricanes Poua v Chiefs Manawa, Levin.
Format:
4 teams: Blues, Chiefs Manawa, Hurricanes Poua and Matatū
6 regular season matches + 4 play-off matches
Season Length: 5 weeks
Total Matches: 10
Semi Finals: 19 March, Final + 3rd/4th play-off: 25 March.
Click HERE to view the 2023 Super Rugby Aupiki draw.