Ethan de Groot makes 'easy' call on future with new deal until 2029

Ethan de Groot has re-committed his future to New Zealand Rugby, the Highlanders and Southland until 2029.

The move will ensure the loosehead prop’s eligibility at the time of the next British and Irish Lions Tour of New Zealand, with the opportunity to add to his 43-Test tally in the meantime, including at next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.

The deal’s announcement comes just hours after De Groot suited up for a non-Test match against the Sharks in Durban, playing 54 minutes in the 54-0 win. He cited the arrival of his first child, Nova, as a major reason to stick around, even though overseas offers were undoubtedly on the table.

“Re-signing was an easy decision for me,” he explained. “I love the Highlanders and playing for my province, and I take real pride in representing my country in the All Blacks. I’ve always been proud of where I come from, so staying down south and continuing to represent this region for another two years was an easy choice.”

De Groot has begun the All Blacks’ Dave Rennie era as New Zealand’s premier loosehead prop, capitalising on his career-best form throughout the recent Super Rugby season. The 76-cap Highlander, who took on co-captaincy duties this year, said the Test calendar offers plenty to work towards.

“Three wins has been a great way to start the year, but the hard work has just begun. It’s a huge season with the Nations Championship and the South Africa tour. With the World Cup in sight next year and the Lions tour even further forward, it is a goal of mine to keep my form, to be a part of both of these career highlights.”

Meanwhile, All Blacks Assistant Coach Jason Ryan said: “It’s great to see Ethan recommit; he’s an important member of our forward pack. He understands what’s required at Test rugby and enjoys the hard parts of the game. We’re excited to see him continue developing and contributing to our game over the coming years.”

NZR CEO Steve Lancaster said: “Ethan’s commitment and passion for the black jersey are obvious to all of us every time he takes the field for the All Blacks and he’s shown the same loyalty and work ethic for his home region as a Southland Stag and a Highlander. It’s great to have Ethan and his family continue their journey with New Zealand Rugby for another three years.”

Highlanders CEO Roger Clark said: “Having Ethan commit to New?Zealand rugby and the Highlanders through to 2029 is something that will delight our fans as much as it does everyone within the club. He is a hugely valued member of our organisation, and we’ve watched him grow from strength to strength both as a player and as a person in recent years.

“Being recognised as our Highlander Man in 2024 and 2026, as well as our MVP this season, speaks to the influence, leadership and commitment he brings to the club every day. Extending his contract is simply another example of the passion he has for the Highlanders and the South.”

Rugby Southland CEO Hua Tamariki said: “Ethan’s decision to recommit through to the end of 2029 is fantastic news for Southland rugby and a reflection of his deep connection to the province that helped shape him. As a proud Southlander, Ethan embodies the values that define our region — hard work, courage, resilience, loyalty and a commitment to giving back.

“His extension with New Zealand Rugby, the Highlanders and the Southland Stags ensures that our aspiring young players can continue to look up to one of their own who has shown that with dedication, perseverance and belief, Southlanders can achieve success on the biggest stages in world rugby. We are incredibly proud that he will continue to wear the ‘S’ and represent the Southland Stags.”