NZ Rugby fails to secure injunction over Chiefs brand dispute
Friday 16 October 2026 · 5 outlets · 6 reports · updated In this story High Court, Chiefs, NRL, New Zealand Rugby
The High Court in Wellington has declined New Zealand Rugby's application for an interim injunction against the NRL. This decision allows the incoming Papua New Guinea Chiefs franchise to proceed with its planned launch next week despite the ongoing trademark dispute.
Key facts
4 facts
- The PNG Chiefs are scheduled to enter the NRL in 2028.
- The PNG Chiefs official launch is scheduled for next Wednesday in Port Moresby.
- NZ Rugby has held the Chiefs trademark in New Zealand since the 1990s.
- The ARLC offered to geo-block Chiefs-related social media material from New Zealand.
The full story
1 min read · 5 outlets
New Zealand Rugby has failed to secure an interim injunction to stop the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) from using the Chiefs name. The Wellington High Court declined the application on Friday, clearing the way for the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Chiefs to proceed with their official brand launch in Port Moresby next Wednesday.
Justice Karen Grau declined the application, suggesting that the average New Zealand sports fan would likely be able to distinguish between the rugby and rugby league teams. The judge noted that the NRL club is often referred to as the 'PNG Chiefs' in media coverage. A full hearing regarding the trademark dispute is expected to take place early next year.
NZ Rugby argued that the use of the name would cause 'damage through dilution' and a 'loss of control' over the established Super Rugby brand. Representing NZ Rugby, barrister Earl Gray claimed the ARLC had been 'negligent' by not checking existing trademarks.
The ARLC argued that the PNG Chiefs would operate in Port Moresby and play in an Australian league, meaning there is no use of the trademark in New Zealand. NRL lawyer Clive Elliott KC stated that a ruling against the team would create a 'cloud' over the franchise during a critical recruitment period.
How it developed
- Fri 16 Oct, 6:15pmThe NRL offered to geo-block Chiefs-related social media material from New Zealand to avoid exposure of the team name in the country.
Compiled from reports by The Post, 1News, Otago Daily Times, RNZ and Stuff.
