Waikato Rugby is proud to announce another key signing in the form of versatile back, Damian McKenzie, who has recommitted to Waikato, Gallagher Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby through to the end of the 2025 season.

McKenzie, 28, returned to New Zealand last year after a stint in Japan and was an integral part in Waikato’s 2022 Bunnings NPC campaign. He has continued his outstanding form in 2023 and has been a solid play maker for the Gallagher Chiefs in their Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

Waikato Chief Executive Officer Carl Moon said, “It is with great pleasure that we can announce that Damian McKenzie will continue to be involved for Waikato for the next two seasons. McKenzie is a world class player, possessing an incredible range of skills, vision and is a true game changer, so it was a priority to retain a player of his calibre.

His loyalty to our province is a testament to the fantastic culture we have built here, and we look forward to seeing him continue to light up the field, here in New Zealand and on the world stage.”

Damian McKenzie will have a chance over the next two seasons to add to his 37 Waikato caps and his impressive 423 points for the province.

Article added: Sunday 30 April 2023