Cam Millar finds new Super Rugby Pacific home after Highlanders exit

The Blues have found their Stephen Perofeta replacement in former Highlander Cam Millar, signing the 24-year-old to a two-year deal.

Millar has emerged as one of New Zealand’s most promising playmakers throughout his four seasons with the Highlanders, and his 85 per cent success rate off the tee in the 2026 season was the best rate of any kicker in the competition.

He leaves Jamie Joseph’s camp to pursue an opportunity with incoming Blues head coach Jason Holland, where he’ll work alongside 144 Test All Black Beauden Barrett day in, day out.

The Blues have lost two All Black playmakers in successive seasons, with Harry Plummer moving to Clermont on a three-year deal in 2025 and Perofeta securing a move to Japan following another injury-riddled campaign in 2026. Perofeta has signed with Leon MacDonald’s Yokohama Canon Eagles, who have also recruited his Blues teammates Kurt Eklund, Laghlan McWhannell and fellow All Black Samipeni Finau.

In addition to Barrett, the Blues still have the services of Zarn Sullivan and former New Zealand U20 No.10 Rico Simpson, who is yet to make his Super Rugby debut but has 13 starts in 18 appearances for Auckland in the NPC.

Millar’s arrival will keep competition high within the group, with Blues General Manager of Rugby Murray Williams full of praise for the youngster’s potential.

“Cam is a talented player who has continued to improve every season and has shown composure whenever he’s been given opportunities at Super Rugby level,” he said.

“He has an excellent kicking game, manages matches well and understands how to control the tempo of a game. Those qualities are difficult to teach, particularly in a young playmaker.

“We’re pleased Cam has chosen to join the Blues, and we’re looking forward to welcoming him to Auckland ahead of the 2027 season.”

Millar thanked his hometown Highlanders and said he’s excited about the next chapter in his young career.

“I’m incredibly grateful for everything the Highlanders and the Otago rugby community have done for me over the past few years. They’ve played a huge role in my development, and I’ll always appreciate the opportunities I was given there,” Millar said.

“The chance to join the Blues is one I’m really excited about. There are quality players and coaches throughout the club, and I’m looking forward to learning from them and doing everything I can to contribute to the team’s success.”

The Highlanders confirmed Millar’s departure as one of seven last week, with an overhaul of their playmaking stocks seeing Josh Jacomb and Patrick Pellegrini join the club for the coming seasons.