Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge has opened up about two major elements shaping the club’s future — the eagerly awaited Christchurch stadium and the potential return of star playmaker Richie Mo’unga.
Mansbridge discussed the progress of Te Kaha, also known as One New Zealand Stadium, which has finally moved from planning to construction after years of delays. The former Lancaster Park was lost to the devastating 2011 earthquake, making this new development all the more significant.
In an interview with Newstalk ZB’s weekend sport host Jason Pine, Mansbridge was visibly moved when asked about the team’s new home.
“As soon as you mentioned it, the hairs on my neck stood up,” he said. “Honestly, it brings me to the verge of tears — that’s how excited I am. If I had my boots and the turf was ready, I’d be out there now. That’s how strongly we all feel about this.”
He described Te Kaha as a remarkable venue that will offer fans an intimate, electric atmosphere. “You’ll be able to see people’s faces across the stadium, and if you’re just a few rows back, it’ll feel like you’re part of the game.”
The 30,000-seat, multi-purpose stadium promises world-class acoustics and is slated for completion in April 2026. One of its first major events will likely be a Crusaders home match.
However, one familiar face who won’t be part of that opening is Richie Mo’unga. Despite hopes of an early return, the All Blacks fly-half remains committed to finishing his contract in Japan, which runs through 2026.
Still, there’s hope he might return to Christchurch when he comes off contract in 2027 — though there’s also buzz around a potential switch to Moana Pasifika. Mansbridge remains optimistic.
“This is his club. If you asked Richie where he feels most at home, where his heart is, it’s here,” he said. “He’s played over 100 games for the Crusaders. This is his turangawaewae — his place of belonging.”
Mansbridge emphasized the club’s ongoing commitment to welcoming former players back. “We’ve seen it with Leicester Fainga’anuku returning next year, and with Ryan Crotty and Willi Heinz before him. We want Crusaders to always feel like home — and we’ll do everything we can to make that possible for Richie too.”
