Ins: Rohan Wingham (Highlanders), Hunter Morrison (Hawke’s Bay), Oliver Haig (Highlanders), Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa (Moana Pasifika), Bryn Hall (Kubota Spears).

The Hurricanes have added depth after losing several players from their title-winning squad. All Blacks No 8 Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa is the headline signing from Moana Pasifika on a multi-year deal, bolstering an already formidable loose forward group.

Locks Hunter Morrison and Oliver Haig help shore up the second row following the departures of Warner Dearns, Isaia Walker-Leawere and Tom Allen. Former Crusaders halfback Bryn Hall also provides experienced cover for All Blacks No 9 Cam Roigard and gives coach Clark Laidlaw another option at halfback.

The Hurricanes have also secured try-scoring sensation Fehi Fineanganofo for 2027, with English club Newcastle Red Bulls agreeing to defer his move so he can push for World Cup selection next year.

Crusaders

Ins: Richie Mo’unga (Toshiba Brave Lupus), Corey Evans (Blues).

The Crusaders have made one of the biggest signings of the off-season by bringing seven-time Super Rugby champion Richie Mo’unga home after three seasons in Japan. However, they have been the quietest of the five New Zealand teams in the confirmed recruitment stakes, with Blues and Māori All Blacks midfielder Corey Evans their only other new addition so far.