Chiefs Secure Super Rugby Top Spot with Win over Highlanders

The Waikato Chiefs secured the top spot in the Super Rugby Pacific standings and clinched home advantage throughout the playoffs with a commanding 41-24 victory over the Otago Highlanders. Lock Tupou Vaa'i was the standout performer, scoring a hat-trick of tries that helped establish an early 19-0 lead and ultimately sealed the win. Despite a spirited fightback from the Highlanders, including tries from co-captains Ethan de Groot and Timoci Tavatavanawai, the Chiefs maintained control thanks to strong offensive execution and accurate kicking from Damian McKenzie. This victory not only guarantees the Chiefs home-field advantage for the finals but also cements their status as serious championship contenders after finishing runners-up in the previous two seasons. The match also marked the Highlanders' disappointing finish at the bottom of the table, earning them the wooden spoon for the first time since 1997. The Chiefs' only concern following the game was the fitness of centre Quinn Tupaea, who left the field injured during the match.