The All Blacks will open their 2026 test season against France at the new One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch, more than 15 years after a devastating earthquake hit the city, New Zealand Rugby announced on Tuesday.
The team have played only five times in Christchurch since the earthquake, which led to the demolition of Lancaster Park.
For the All Blacks to play at the new One New Zealand stadium 15 years after the earthquakes will be a special moment for the team and a significant occasion for rugby at the start of a new era for the international game, New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson said in a statement.
The season opener will start on July 4 in the new-look, 12-team Nations Championship followed by home matches against Italy at Wellingtons Sky Stadium on July 11 and Ireland at Aucklands Eden Park on July 18.
