COMMENT: It was a mistake to under estimate the Highlanders last year and it would be just as unwise to do so again this year, wites Gregor Paul.

Join us for a live blog of the tantalising Kiwi derby between the Highlanders and the Crusaders.

WATCH: A truly heavyweight contest - in all senses - finished with the Highlanders beating the Crusaders to join their southern cousins at the top of the table.

A first sell-out gate for the Highlanders, and the signing of wing Patrick Osborne for another year, are two reasons for the franchise to cele-brate.

The Highlanders thought Chiefs midfielder Charlie Ngatai should have been red carded for the lifting tackle on Elliott Dixon.

Live updates of the Chiefs and Highlanders round 11 Super Rugby clash at FMG Stadium in Hamilton.

The game between the Chiefs and the Highlanders in Hamilton tonight is a massive one for many reasons, not least of which are the key match-ups across the park.

In a battle of backlines dotted with All Black starters and many more hopefuls, one man will hog the headlines

Waisake Naholo's return to rugby has gone as planned.

The Highlanders relied on a defensive masterclass to beat the Brumbies and snap a mini losing streak.

Sharks hold on for a 15-14 win in Dunedin after Lima Sopoaga missed a late drop goal.

In February at Eden Park against the Blues, there was no flourishing start from the Highlanders in defence of their title.

The Reds have held on for their first victory of the Super Rugby season, edging the Highlanders 28-27 in a Saturday night thriller at Suncorp Stadium.

The Highlanders have held off an early onslaught and a rash of injuries to overcome a fierce Force side in Dunedin tonight.

The defending champions are moving nicely into top gear and starting to look more than capable of holding onto their title.

The Melbourne Rebels feel the Super Rugby defending champion Highlanders are playing better than when they won the title.

The Waratahs, completely outplayed in the first half against the Highlanders, gave the defending champions a big scare.

The Highlanders have started the process to find a new head coach for the champion Super Rugby team but the leading candidate has ruled himself out of the job.

COMMENT: Friday night's win over the Blues was just what the Hurricanes needed.

The Highlanders have rolled to a 34-15 victory over the Lions, delighting their fans at Forsyth Barr Stadium.

Former Crusaders and Wallaby coach Robbie Deans has emerged as a dark horse candidate to take over the Highlanders next season.

The Hurricanes showed more than they did in week one, it was a decent display, but not enough to beat a Highlanders side.

The Hurricanes and Highlanders just don't do boring, and the Highlanders came out on top of a thriller in Dunedin.