Chris Gibbes, the former head coach of the Maori All Blacks, has been appointed as the new Forwards Coach for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua. Gibbes, recognized for his past coaching positions with the Hurricanes, Wellington, and Waikato, will be responsible for developing 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 and led the Maori All Blacks to a notable 32-17 victory over Ireland in 2018. He previously held the role of Head Coach for Wellington in New Zealand’s NPC, successfully guiding the team back into the premiership division in 2017 and reaching the semifinals the following year.
In addition, Gibbes was the Head Coach for Waikato in 2008 and served as the Forwards Coach for Japan during the 2007 Rugby World Cup. A formidable second rower in his playing career, he played 44 games for Hawkes Bay, Waikato, Thames Valley, and NZ Colts from 1994 to 2002.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the new role, Gibbes remarked, “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.”
He also highlighted the personal connection he has to Fiji, stating, “My grandmother was from Rotuma, and my father was born in Suva, so I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity and thrilled to grow this connection. I can’t wait to get started.”
Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans stated, “Chris has a tremendous record in New Zealand as well as other rugby markets. He is the perfect mentor for our forwards as we push to make an even bigger impact in Super Rugby Pacific. Chris’ focus on instilling dominance in the pack complements our incoming Head Coach Glen Jackson’s plans well for the upcoming season.” He added that Gibbes’ head coaching experience will be invaluable for the young players in their squad.
Gibbes succeeds Greg Fleming, who has transitioned to the role of Defence Coach within the club.