Canterbury Rugby elevate Alex Robertson to NPC head coach

Canterbury Rugby have today announced their new head coach for the 2026 NPC season, only a couple of months after winning the 2025 competition.

Marty Bourke, who was in charge of Canterbury for four seasons, left his role as head coach at the end of the season, after their 36-28 victory over Otago at Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch.

Current New Zealand U20’s co-coach and Canterbury assistant Alex Robertson has been elevated to the head coach role, after being with the group since 2022.

The IT and Business Project Manager has gone through the Canterbury coaching pathways, starting at Ellesmere in 2017, before progressing through the likes of Lincoln University, Canterbury U19 and U20’s, and Canterbury B’s.

Robertson is ready and excited to try and replicate 2025, which was a successful season for the franchise.

“I’m incredibly proud and grateful to be given the opportunity to lead the Canterbury NPC side. Coming off such a special season in 2025 being able to pick up the reins is hugely exciting,” Robertson said.

“I’m really looking forward to working with this group, on and off the field, to continue that momentum and see what we can build together.”

Canterbury CEO Tony Smail is excited about what this appointment means for the group, after a couple of successful seasons under Bourke.

“Alex is a fantastic example of the pathways we’re proud to create at Canterbury Rugby. He’s worked his way through the coaching system, consistently added value at every level, and played a significant role in the success of our NPC programme.

“We’re excited to see him step into this role and lead our championship winning side,” Smail said on a Canterbury statement.