The nib Blues will begin searching for a new head coach after confirming Willie Walker will leave the club following six transformative seasons to take up a coaching opportunity with Fiji Rugby.
Walker departs as one of the most successful coaches in the history of New Zealand women’s rugby, leaving behind a legacy that helped establish the Blues as the benchmark team in Super Rugby Aupiki.
Since leading the side from its formation in 2021, Walker guided the Blues through the first-ever women’s Super Rugby match played in New Zealand before steering the team into the inaugural Super Rugby Aupiki competition the following year.
His tenure culminated in an extraordinary period of sustained success, with the Blues claiming three consecutive Super Rugby Aupiki titles between 2024 and 2026, while also securing back-to-back Women’s Super Rugby Champions crowns.
The achievements have cemented the club’s place as one of the leading women’s rugby programmes in the Southern Hemisphere.
Walker said leaving the Blues was one of the most difficult decisions of his coaching career but described the opportunity to join Fiji Rugby as one he could not pass up.
He reflected on the strong culture developed within the team, saying the close relationships built between players, coaches and staff had been one of the most rewarding aspects of his time at the club.
Walker said he was confident he was leaving the programme in a strong position to continue its growth and success.
Before moving into coaching, Walker enjoyed a distinguished playing career that included selection for the Māori All Blacks before professional stints in Italy, Japan and England, where he played for Gloucester and Worcester.
He later transitioned into coaching with the Auckland Storm before taking charge of the newly established Blues women’s programme.
Blues General Manager of Rugby Murray Williams praised Walker’s contribution, saying his influence extended well beyond the team’s impressive trophy haul.
Williams said Walker had built not only a championship-winning side but also a culture that players wanted to be part of, creating an environment that attracted and retained some of New Zealand’s best rugby talent.
He said Walker’s legacy would continue to shape the Blues long after his departure, describing him as both an outstanding coach and an exceptional leader.
The Blues have confirmed the recruitment process for a new head coach will begin in the coming months, with further announcements expected once the appointment process is underway.
Walker’s move also represents a significant boost for Fiji Rugby, which continues investing in high-performance coaching as it seeks to strengthen its international programmes.
For the Blues, the end of Walker’s tenure closes a remarkable chapter—one defined by innovation, sustained excellence and a legacy that has helped elevate women’s rugby in Aotearoa to new heights.
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