Black Ferns star loose forward Kaipo Olsen-Baker has officially committed her long-term future to New Zealand Rugby (NZR). The explosive 24-year-old talent has signed a major Kaipo Olsen-Baker Contract Extension that will keep her with the national side until the end of 2029.

World Cup Success Leads to Long-Term Deal

The Gisborne-born loose forward has been in sensational form recently. Her stellar performances at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England earned her global recognition. Following the tournament, she was named in the prestigious World Rugby Women’s 15s Dream Team of the Year.

Since making her international debut in 2022, Olsen-Baker has earned 19 Test caps for the Black Ferns. She stated that this Kaipo Olsen-Baker Contract Extension comes at the perfect time in her career as she continues to enjoy her rugby.

Exciting International Schedule Ahead

The next few years promise high-stakes action for New Zealand rugby fans. The country will host the historic British & Irish Lions Series next year. This marquee event will be followed closely by the next Women’s Rugby World Cup hosted in Australia.

Olsen-Baker expressed immense excitement about being part of these massive upcoming tournaments. She noted that something truly special is building within the current Black Ferns squad environment.

Head Coach Praises Game-Changing Ability

Black Ferns Head Coach Whitney Hansen praised the young loose forward’s incredible impact on the pitch. Hansen described her as an explosive and powerful player with a genuine ability to change the course of any match in big moments.

Olsen-Baker’s rise in the sport has been highly impressive. She debuted for Manawatū in the Farah Palmer Cup back in 2019. Later, she won the NZR Women’s Player of the Year in 2024 and the Rugby Players Association (RPA) Player of the Year in 2025.

Kaipo Olsen-Baker Career Highlights:

  • Black Ferns Debut: 2022 (19 Test caps achieved to date).
  • NZR Women’s Player of the Year: Awarded in 2024 after a stellar season with Matatū.
  • RPA Player of the Year: Awarded in 2025 by her fellow peers.
  • World Rugby Honors: Named in the World Rugby Women’s 15s Dream Team of the Year.

To see where the team stands ahead of the next international window, you can view the live team rankings on the official World Rugby website.

Keep up with the latest international updates in our Rugby News category and view full fixtures on the 2026 Rugby Schedule page!