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NZR secures signature of key Black Fern loose-forward through to 2029
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Black Ferns enforcer Kaipo Olsen-Baker has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby through to 2029.
The Gisborne-born loose-forward and New Zealand Rugby announced on Tuesday that the contract extension came about through her strong performances at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England in 2025.
Olsen-Baker has represented the Black Ferns 19 times since making her debut in 2022, and was named the Rugby Players Association (RPA) Player of the Year in 2025, after being named NZR Women’s Player of the Year in 2024 following an impressive season for Matatu in Super Rugby Aupiki.
The Matatu star was also named in the World Rugby Women’s 15s Dream Team of the Year in 2025, highlighting the growth in recent seasons.
Olsen-Baker said the Black Ferns environment was one determining factor in her decision.
“I’m enjoying my rugby right now and really grateful to lock-in the next three years doing what I love,” the loose-forward said on an NZR press release.
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“Being in the Black Ferns environment has helped me grow massively, not just as a player but as a person too. I want to continue learning, contributing and challenging myself every day.
“There’s something special building within this group. To have a Lions Series here at home in New Zealand next year, followed by a World Cup in Australia is exciting and something I’d love to be a part of.”
Black Ferns head coach Whitney Hansen says, having coached Olsen-Baker through the years, she believes the sky is the limit for the 24-year-old.
“Kaipo is an explosive, powerful loose forward with an incredible presence on the field and has a genuine ability to change a game,” Hansen said.
“She’s proven to have an ability to step up in the big moments as we saw at the World Cup in England and during our recent Pacific Four Series. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Kaipo’s growth throughout the rugby pathway and am excited about what’s ahead of her, as this is just the beginning of what is already a special legacy.”
