Chiefs Manawa begin 2027 coach search after Dwayne Sweeney steps down

Dwayne Sweeney has stepped down as Chiefs Manawa head coach after two seasons in charge, leaving the Hamilton-based franchise to begin a search for a new Super Rugby Aupiki coach ahead of 2027.

The 42-year-old former Chiefs and Waikato player guided the side to a third-place finish in 2025 but oversaw a winless 2026 Super Rugby Aupiki season. During his tenure, Sweeney was credited with developing several players who went on to represent the Black Ferns.

“I have some exciting personal opportunities I wish to pursue,” Sweeney said on Friday. “In doing so, this will make me unavailable to fill the requirements of the position of head coach. I’m excited about what we’ve built over the last couple of years and have been working on setting the team up for what will be a competitive 2027 season.”

Chiefs Rugby Club General Manager of Rugby Wayne Maher acknowledged the departure with a mix of disappointment and goodwill. “While we’re naturally disappointed to see him go, we’re equally excited for Sweens as he takes on this next chapter, and he leaves with our genuine thanks and very best wishes,” Maher said.

Maher also framed the move as a positive step for Sweeney’s coaching career, describing it as a brilliant opportunity for him to continue growing as a head coach.

The Chiefs Manawa will now turn their attention to identifying a successor capable of rebuilding momentum in the competition after a difficult 2026 campaign.