Ex-Leinster lock Hayden Triggs lands major Hurricanes role

Former Leinster and M?ori All Blacks lock Hayden Triggs has been confirmed as the new head coach of Hurricanes Poua ahead of the 2026 Super Rugby Aupiki campaign.

The 43-year-old replaces outgoing coach Fusi Feaunati, who has been involved with the women’s programme since its inception in 2021. Triggs moves into the top job after serving as Poua assistant coach earlier this year.

“I am humbled and privileged to accept the role as head coach for the Hurricanes Poua,” said Triggs. “My experience with this team has provided me with a clear direction to develop a well-connected high-performance environment that drives aspiring rugby players to want to become Poua players and add to the legacy of this team.

“To achieve that, my focus will be centred on building a hard-working team that plays with speed and power and finds joy through rugby. This is an exciting time for the Poua and the wider Hurricanes club, which I am grateful to be a part of.”

Feaunati paid tribute to the players and staff he leaves behind, describing his tenure as “one of the most rewarding experiences” of his career.

“While my time in the role has come to an end, my belief in the players and the programme remains strong,” he said. “Change is part of sport. What matters most is the legacy we leave behind in people, culture, and effort.”

Hurricanes GM of Rugby Tony Philp thanked Feaunati for his contribution and backed Triggs to build on that foundation.

“Fusi’s work has laid a solid platform for Hayden to work from,” Philp said. “We believe Hayden’s experiences across rugby in New Zealand and abroad will enable the Poua to reach another level.”

A former army mechanic born in Lower Hutt and raised in Manawat?, Triggs enjoyed a decorated 15-year playing career with Manawat?, the Hurricanes, Highlanders, Chiefs, Blues, and Irish province Leinster, as well as Japan’s Honda Heat. He represented the M?ori All Blacks ten times between 2007 and 2015.

Since retiring in 2017, Triggs has worked in player development and coaching, most recently as Manawat? assistant coach and with the New Zealand Women’s U20 setup. He will take up his new role full-time early next year, with the Poua squad to be confirmed in due course.