Chay Fihaki is a versatile and powerful New Zealand rugby union player known for his ability to cover fullback, wing, and outside centre with equal impact. Born on January 3, 2001, in Auckland, Fihaki stands 192 cm tall and weighs around 102 kg. He was educated at Sacred Heart College, where he first caught attention as a gifted backline talent. After graduating through the Crusaders Academy and representing New Zealand U20s in 2019, he made his professional debut for Canterbury in 2020. That year, he earned Canterbury’s Player of the Year award, notably delivering a memorable 55-metre match-winning kick during his debut season.
Fihaki joined the Crusaders senior squad in 2021 and has since become a regular feature in Super Rugby Pacific, known for his size, running game, and intelligent positional play. By mid-2025, he had made approximately 45 appearances for the Crusaders, scoring 82 points, and played over 50 games for Canterbury in the NPC, contributing over 100 points. His performances have steadily earned him higher honors, including selection for the All Blacks XV and the prestigious Barbarians squad, where he played against Fiji at Twickenham in 2024.
In August 2024, he signed a contract extension keeping him with both Canterbury and the Crusaders through to the end of 2026. Coaches and analysts frequently praise his composure under pressure and his adaptability across the back three, marking him as a potential future All Black. With continued growth and consistency, Chay Fihaki remains one of the most exciting backline prospects in New Zealand rugby.
Career
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Canterbury Outside Centre |
2020 - present |
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Crusaders Outside Centre |
2021 - present |
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New Zealand U20's Outside Centre |
2019 - 2023 |
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Barbarians Outside Centre |
2024 - 2024 |
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All Blacks XV Outside Centre |
2024 - 2024 |
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New Zealand Outside Centre |
2024 - 2025 |
