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De Groot locks in long-term NZ Rugby future
Sport Nation • August 12th, 2026 6:00 pm
Ethan de Groot | Photo: Ron Gaunt/Photosport
Ethan de Groot has recommitted to New Zealand Rugby, the Highlanders and Southland through to the end of 2029.
The 43-Test All Blacks prop’s new deal keeps him in New Zealand through next year’s Rugby World Cup and the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand in 2029.
de Groot said staying in the south was an easy call, especially after he and his wife welcomed daughter Nova in March.
“Re-signing was an easy decision for me. I love the Highlanders and playing for my province, and I take real pride in representing my country in the All Blacks,” de Groot said.
“I’ve always been proud of where I come from, so staying down south and continuing to represent this region for another two years was an easy choice.”
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The 28-year-old has started all three of the All Blacks’ Nations Championship wins in 2026 and scored his fifth Test try against Italy.
All Blacks assistant coach Jason Ryan said de Groot remains an important piece of their forward pack.
"It's great to see Ethan recommit; he’s an important member of our forward pack. He understands what's required at Test rugby and enjoys the hard parts of the game.”
de Groot has played 76 games for the Highlanders and was named the club’s Highlander Man in 2024 and 2026, as well as MVP this season.
His extension is also a boost for Southland, with the front rower locked in to continue representing the Stags alongside his Highlanders and All Blacks commitments.
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