New Zealand Rugby has gone to the High Court seeking interim and final injunctions to prevent Papua New Guinea’s incoming NRL franchise from using the “Chiefs” name. The dispute is tied to plans to unveil the PNG team’s logo and jersey later this month.
Multiple outlets report that PNG Chiefs branding is scheduled for a public launch event, but New Zealand Rugby opposes the name because it clashes with its own existing “Chiefs” team. Radio New Zealand Pacific describes the matter as part of a longstanding trademark dispute that has now escalated into formal legal proceedings. Other coverage characterises the move as a direct attempt by NZ Rugby to protect its rights ahead of the franchise’s official branding rollout.
