The Highlanders have strengthened their 2027 coaching ranks by signing North Harbour Hilux NPC head coach Jimmy Maher on a one-year deal.

Maher led North Harbour to an unexpected quarter-final finish in the 2026 competition, while his coaching helped several club rugby players earn deals to Super Rugby Pacific franchises.

Under Maher’s guidance, Harbour went from the wooden spoon in 2025 to finishing fourth in the NPC regular season.

Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph said Maher’s ability to connect with players is a super strength of his.

“Jimmy’s coaching expertise, leadership qualities, and a genuine passion for player development were key skills we were looking for in this appointment,” Joseph said.

“It’s a role that will help drive an enhanced development mentality within the team with the goal of continual player improvement throughout the season.

“In his coaching career so far, he has demonstrated the ability to connect with players, challenge them to improve, and help create environments where individuals and teams can thrive. We are excited about the energy he will bring to our programme .”

The North Harbour NPC head coach said he’s extremely excited about working alongside the other coaches, including Joseph, former All Black Ben Smith, former Kiwis Rugby League head coach David Kidwell, attack coach Ryan Bambry, and new scrum coach Boris Stankovich.

“The Highlanders have a proud history, a passionate supporter base, and a reputation for developing quality players and people. The opportunity to be part of that is one I am incredibly excited about.

“I am looking forward to working alongside the coaching group, staff, and players to build towards the future and continue to strive for success.”

The Highlanders announcement comes three weeks after the Dunedin-based Super Rugby Pacific franchise named Stankovich as the club’s new forwards/scrum coach.

The former Coventry player/coach joins Joseph’s coaching staff following the recent departures of National Pathways head coach Kane Jury and former interim Highlanders coach Clarke Dermody in recent years.

Stankovich brings extensive experience from around the world, spending time at Leicester Tigers as the side’s scrum coach, before taking up international gigs with Canada and Russia.

“We’re looking forward to getting Boris on board; he has a reputation for delivering clarity, technical detail, and a calm authority to the set piece,” Joseph said about Stankovich’s appointment.

“He understands how to build a pack that works for each other, and he’s passionate about developing players. He’ll add real value to our coaching group and our forward play. ”