With Kane Jury departing the Highlanders after his appointment as NZR National Pathways Head Coach, the club has welcomed Otago NPC Assistant Coach Ryan Bambry into the coaching group for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.

Bambry brings strong experience within the region, having previously coached the Highlanders U20 side and served for several years as High Performance Development Manager at Otago Rugby. He will continue his role with the Otago NPC programme while contributing to the Highlanders’ campaign.

The opportunity holds special significance for Bambry, who was part of the Highlanders as a player in 2006.

“I’m grateful and excited to join the Highlanders. I am determined to nail my role for a team that I have always loved, and I can't wait to represent our club and the people of the South.”

Otago CEO Richard Kinley says the appointment reflects both Bambry’s development and the organisation’s commitment to growing coaching talent within the region.

“Ryan has been a valued staff member at Otago Rugby, leading our High Performance development and Men’s Academy programme over the last five years. While we are sad to lose him from those roles, we are delighted to retain his services for the NPC team. It is always pleasing to see our coaches progress to the next level, and we wish Ryan all the best at the Highlanders over the next few seasons.”

Highlanders GM of Rugby Greg O’Brien says the move reinforces the importance of developing and promoting regional talent.

“We are happy to have been able to promote from within our region. Ryan has coached many of the players in our squad and, having coached our U20 side, is familiar with the Highlanders culture. He will be a good fit with our club.”

Bambry’s appointment marks a well-earned step forward after five years leading key high-performance pathways at Otago, while maintaining a strong connection to the NPC team ahead of the 2026 winter campaign.

Article added: Thursday 26 February 2026