New Zealand Rugby statement: Court ruling in row over NRL team's name

New Zealand Rugby have issued a statement following a High Court ruling as they bid to block the use of the “Chiefs” name by a new Papua New Guinea-based rugby league franchise.

The High Court has declined to grant an interim injunction, clearing the way for the PNG Chiefs brand launch later this month, although NZR insists the ruling does not address the merits of its trademark case.

The new 13-man code side are scheduled to compete in the NRL from the 2028 season.

With both sides now preparing for the next phase of the legal battle, NZR says it remains determined to protect a Chiefs identity it argues has been established in New Zealand rugby for nearly three decades.

A statement reads: “New Zealand Rugby (NZR) acknowledges today’s decision by the High Court of New Zealand not to grant an interim injunction preventing the use of the names “PNG Chiefs”, “Chiefs” or any similar names in New Zealand. NZR respects the Court’s decision.

“Today’s decision relates only to the interim injunction. It is not a ruling on the merits of NZR’s case, and the application for a final injunction remains before the Court.

“NZR acknowledges the commitments the ARLC made to the Court to take active steps to avoid confusion in New Zealand when the brand is launched on October 21. These commitments were relied on by the Court and recognise the concern NZR has raised since October 2025.

“NZR’s position has not changed: two teams called the Chiefs, playing similar codes in the same commercial markets, is likely to cause confusion. NZR remains firmly of the view that the Chiefs name cannot be used in New Zealand without infringing protections that have been in place since 1998.

“Since October 2025, NZR has raised its concerns directly with the ARLC in the hope of resolving the matter without going to court.”

NZR CEO Steve Lancaster insisted the High Court decision was “not a judgment on the strength of our case”, stressing that, as trademark holder, the union’s responsibility to protect the Chiefs brand “hasn’t changed” and that it remains open to finding a solution with the ARLC.

Chiefs CEO Simon Graafhuis thanked supporters and described the ruling as merely “an early step”, pledging to keep standing up for a name that “means a great deal to this region and its people”.

Chairman Errol Brain struck a particularly emotional note, saying he had “literally bled for this club” and felt a duty to protect its “brand and legacy” for future generations.