Kemara leaves Crusaders to sign with Chiefs and fulfil childhood dream

Taha Kemara has signed a one-year deal with the Chiefs for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season, leaving the Crusaders to return to Hamilton and the franchise he idolised as a child. The Chiefs confirmed the signing on Thursday, ending weeks of teased announcements on social media.

The 23-year-old first five-eighth has deep roots in Waikato, and the move carries personal weight that goes beyond rugby. “When I was Year 7 I used to come and kick a ball here by myself and picture playing at a packed out Waikato Stadium for the Chiefs,” Kemara said. “It’s about making that kid proud, making his dream come true.”

Kemara made his Super Rugby debut for the Crusaders on 11 March 2023, coming off the bench against the Fijian Drua, before establishing himself as a regular starter the following season. Injury interrupted his progress, but he returned to the starting side this season, operating at either first five-eighth or fullback alongside Rivez Reihana. The pair’s form earned both players selection for the Maori All Blacks’ match against a Japan XV on 27 June — a significant marker of Kemara’s standing in New Zealand rugby.

The Chiefs were quick to underline why they pursued the signing. Head coach Jono Gibbes said Kemara “ticks all the boxes” in terms of quality, Super Rugby experience and values. “Taha is a great young player with a good head on his shoulders,” Gibbes added. “Wanting to be near family and continue to play the game that he loves is a strong foundation for any Chiefs player.”

Kemara was named the Chiefs’ U20s Player of the Year in 2022 before his path took him south to Christchurch. His return to the North Island was already underway this provincial season, where he has been a key figure for Waikato in the NPC. The side sit fifth on the ladder with a 3-2 record after five rounds.

The timing of the announcement adds an extra layer of intrigue: Waikato host defending NPC champions Canterbury at FMG Stadium Waikato on Saturday, meaning Kemara will line up against several of his soon-to-be former Crusaders teammates before his Super Rugby switch is even complete.