Blues Aupiki head coach Willie Walker departs after 'transformative' tenure

Three-time Super Rugby Aupiki championship-winning head coach Willie Walker has announced his departure from the Blues, after six seasons at the helm.

The Blues head coach will leave the franchise after three straight Super Rugby Aupiki titles and back-to-back Women’s Super Rugby Champions Finals triumphs.

Walker’s announcement comes only a couple of days after their latest title, overcoming a tough NSW Waratahs side at Leichardt Oval to become 2026 Women’s Super Rugby Champions yet again, a week after their Aupiki championship.

Walker will begin a new role with Fiji Rugby after six seasons with the Auckland-based franchise. Walker’s playing career included representing the Maori All Blacks before playing in Italy, Japan, and then Gloucester and Worcester in the Gallagher Premiership.

Walker said leaving the Blues was an incredibly hard decision.

“My time at the Blues has been an amazing adventure, and I know that I will always be a part of this club in some capacity,” the departing head coach said.

“The joy of being in and around a group of people who enjoy hanging out together has been really special. I’m genuinely going to miss the group, but I know I’ve left it in a good space.

“I wish everyone well and look forward to seeing what the next chapter looks like as the programme continues to grow and develop. I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunity I had with the Blues.”

Blues’ General Manager of Rugby Murray Williams said that Walker’s ability to create a winning culture will leave a “lasting mark” on the franchise.

“Willie leaves an enormous legacy at this club,” said Williams.

“To take a team from its very first game to three consecutive titles speaks to the calibre of coach and person he is. He’s not just built a winning team; he’s built a culture that players want to be part of, and that will be his lasting mark on the nib Blues.

“We’re grateful for everything he’s given this club, and while we’re sad to see him go, we understand why an opportunity like this is one he had to take. We wish Willie and his family all the very best, and he will forever have a home at this club.”