All Blacks coach lauds new 2026 tour of South Africa

New Zealand All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson has described the team’s upcoming tour of South Africa Springboks in 2026 as “going to be a hell of a tour”.

The tour, part of what has been termed rugby’s greatest rivalry, is expected to include matches against provincial sides including the Stormers, Sharks, Bulls and Lions, before the Test series against the Springboks.

Robertson said memories of past campaigns — notably the All Blacks’ 1996 tour when they secured their first series win in South Africa — drive the excitement, saying the inclusion of mid-week provincial matches added to the challenge and appeal.

"When you look at the annuals, it's pretty special the amount of big occasions we've had and another one is ahead next year," he told the All Blacks' official website.

"It has been in the background for quite a while now, and you work closely with it, with your scheduling and timing, and the more you see, the more excited you get.

"I was fortunate to play Super Rugby against the South Africans for a long period and to coach as well. We know what it's like to play the Stormers and Sharks and Bulls and those Lions games on the side of a Test match as well.

"So, it's that full package and you're all in and you get to do it and with a great group of supporters. I'm sure there'll be some that have done it before and want to do it again while they can and support the All Blacks in the Republic."

He added that such a format, with rapid turnarounds and diverse free-flowing rugby styles, would help build depth and prepare his squad for the big Tests ahead.

The former Crusaders coach also acknowledged the rigours of touring with mid-week games and tight scheduling, adding that selection would focus on the whole squad, not just the weekend XV, with players aware that wearing the black jersey means every game, regardless of opponent or day, counts.

"There's also how you prepare in those weeks when you've got a five-day turnaround and what is the best way to maximise your time on tour. There's a lot of work that goes into it while also a lot of time to peak. It is unique."

A tour would also involve dealing with the different styles the teams play, which would be helpful for the All Blacks' learning.

"All those different styles of where they want to play is what we'll learn. That's the great thing about doing a tour. You get tight and take on anything that's in front of you. It's going to be a hell of a tour."

The tour is scheduled for August and September 2026 and will mark the return of the traditional multi-match format between the two nations for the first time in decades.