Chris Gibbes, the former head coach of the Maori All Blacks, has been announced as the new Forwards Coach for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua. Gibbes, who has an extensive coaching background with teams like the Hurricanes, Wellington, and Waikato, will be responsible for training the Drua’s forwards in the upcoming Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific seasons.
Most recently, Gibbes served as the Senior Assistant Coach at the Hurricanes from 2019 to 2023. He also led the Maori All Blacks to a significant 32-17 victory against Ireland in 2018. Previous to this role, he was the head coach of Wellington in New Zealand’s NPC, where he guided the team back to the premiership division in 2017 and reached the semifinals in 2018. Additionally, he has experience as the head coach of Waikato in 2008 and served as the Forwards Coach for Japan during the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
Having played as a tough second-rower, Gibbes participated in 44 games for teams including Hawkes Bay, Waikato, Thames Valley, and NZ Colts from 1994 to 2002.
Upon his appointment, Gibbes expressed his excitement, stating, “Having the opportunity to join this Club is incredibly exciting, and I’m determined to add value to the strong foundation that has been built so far. The Drua have a very exciting playing roster, a quality backroom staff, and a highly motivated coaching team that I’m looking forward to being a part of.”
Gibbes also highlighted his personal connection to Fiji, noting his grandmother was from Rotuma and his father was born in Suva. “I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity and thrilled to grow this connection. I can’t wait to get started,” he added.
Mark Evans, CEO of the Fijian Drua, praised Gibbes’ impressive record in New Zealand and other rugby markets, stating that he is an ideal mentor for their forwards as they aim to make a more significant impact in Super Rugby Pacific. Evans noted that Gibbes’ focus on pack dominance aligns well with the plans of incoming Head Coach Glen Jackson for the upcoming season. Furthermore, he mentioned that Gibbes will bring valuable head coaching experience to the young playing group.
Gibbes succeeds Greg Fleming in the Forwards Coach position, as Fleming transitions to the role of Defence Coach for the club.