Damian McKenzie Claims Record as Chiefs Overwhelm Moana Pasifika in High-Scoring Rout

Damian McKenzie becomes the Chiefs' top try scorer in a 10-try rout over Moana Pasifika. The bonus point victory sends the Chiefs to the top of the table.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 4:08 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

A Historic Night for the Waikato Playmaker

Damian McKenzie etched his name into the annals of New Zealand rugby history during a clinical performance that saw the Chiefs dismantle their opponents. By crossing the white line twice, McKenzie reached a career total of 44 tries for the franchise, officially overtaking the previous record of 43 held by Sitiveni Sivivatu. Beyond his try-scoring prowess, the All Black flyhalf became only the second New Zealand player to amass 1500 points for a single Super Rugby team, joining an elite group of scorers that includes Dan Carter and Beauden Barrett.

Dominance Established in the Opening Salvo

The match began with a relentless offensive display from the visitors, fueled by the creative synergy of Quinn Tupaea and Kyren Taumoefolau. Early in the first half, the Chiefs established a commanding 19-0 lead through a series of well-executed maneuvers, including a Samipeni Finau try sparked by a tactical chip kick from McKenzie. Moana Pasifika struggled to find an answer to the speed of the Chiefs' backline, as Tupaea and Liam Coombes-Fabling exploited gaps in the defensive line with consistent precision.

Resistance Thwarted by Red Zone Efficiency

Despite facing a heavy deficit, Moana Pasifika attempted to fight back through their forward pack, yet they were repeatedly denied by a resolute Chiefs defense. Prop Paula Latu was held up over the try line on two separate occasions, symbolizing a night of frustration for the home side at Rotorua International Stadium. The struggle for Moana Pasifika was further compounded when Tom Savage received a yellow card for a head-on-head collision in the 28th minute, forcing the team to navigate a critical portion of the match with only 14 players.