Former All Blacks assistant coach Tamati Ellison has been appointed to the Blues coaching staff for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season, where he will work under incoming head coach Jason Holland.
The pair previously served together as assistant coaches during Scott Robertson's two years leading the All Blacks. Holland departed his All Blacks assistant role at the end of the 2025 season, while Ellison was not retained when Dave Rennie was appointed All Blacks coach earlier in 2026.
Ellison, a former All Black and Māori All Blacks co-captain with tribal affiliations to Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Mutunga and Ngāti Whakaue, has previously worked as a coach for the Wellington Lions, Crusaders and All Blacks. He serves as head coach of the Māori All Blacks and will retain that position alongside his Blues role.
During his playing career, Ellison represented the Blues, Hurricanes, Highlanders and Melbourne Rebels in Super Rugby and earned 5 All Blacks caps, including 4 Test caps.
Blues general manager of rugby Murray Williams said Ellison's appointment would bring expertise to the coaching environment. "Tamati has a deep understanding of the game and team culture, strong leadership qualities and a proven ability to connect with players and help them grow. He brings valuable experience from some of the best environments in world rugby, and we're excited about what he'll add to our programme."
Ellison said the opportunity to work with Holland appealed to him. "When the opportunity came to work alongside Jason and be part of what the club is building for the future, it was one that really appealed to me. There is outstanding talent throughout the organisation and a real desire to keep pushing forward. I'm looking forward to getting to Auckland, connecting with the players and staff, and helping create an environment where people can perform at their best."
Ellison will take up his position later in 2026 ahead of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.