Heat’s Turner, Kolose ink long-term deals with Blues

Two Counties Manukau Heat players are set to star during the upcoming Super Rugby Aupiki season and beyond.

Along with Maama Vaipulu (Auckland), Tara Turner and Jaymie Kolose have become the first women to sign long-term contracts with the Blues. All three are now secure on the Blues roster until the end of the 2028 season.

Joining the Heat for the 2025 Farah Palmer Cup, Turner has met with success, especially since moving from fullback to halfback last year, while Kolose is considered a game-breaker for the Blues and Black Ferns.

Blues head coach Willie Walker says the signings represent the franchise’s aims to provide greater certainty for its female athletes.

“This is huge for our club and for women’s rugby in Aotearoa. Securing Tara, Maama, and Jaymie for the next three years gives us a strong core to build around. These are players who not only perform at the highest level but drive standards every day.

“We’re seeing the women’s game evolve rapidly, and commitments like this show that we’re serious about creating an environment where our athletes can thrive long-term. It’s about performance, but it’s also about connection, identity, and building something that lasts.”