The PNG Chiefs is yet to officially launch its club’s logo and branding colors as they prepare for their 2028 NRL entry.
While preparations continue, New Zealand media reports have highlighted concerns regarding the club’s name and possible branding similarities with the New Zealand Rugby team, Chiefs.
According to a report by Stuff.co.nz published on November 1, 2025, New Zealand Rugby reportedly sought legal advice regarding trademark protection in Australasia following the introduction of the PNG franchise during the 2025 PM’s XIII match at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
The report states that concerns relate to potential similarities in branding and colour schemes. The Waikato-based Chiefs traditionally use red, black, and yellow colours also associated with Papua New Guinea’s national identity.
In a statement published by Stuff.co.nz, New Zealand Rugby, it stated, “New Zealand Rugby is aware that there are examples of the Chiefs name used by teams in different sporting contexts internationally.”
“Our focus is on protecting the Chiefs trademark in Australasia, where our rights date back to the team’s inception when Super Rugby began in 1996.”
“We can confirm we have corresponded with the Australian Rugby League Commission about their decision to name a new team the Chiefs and are working in good faith toward an outcome that works for all parties.”
Meanwhile, PNG HAUSBUNG spoke with the PNG Chiefs General Manager Michael Chammas, during the Alex Johnston signing press conference held yesterday, where he claimed was not aware of any issues regarding a branding clash with the New Zealand franchise.
“We have not heard of this issue, but if there was a problem then the NRL would not accept the team's name as Chiefs,” he said.
“We therefore don’t have those sorts of issues. The NRL has done their homework.”
While the NRL has not issued a formal public comment, reports indicate that the Australian Rugby League Commission has specifically registered the name “PNG Chiefs” rather than “Chiefs” alone.
Furthermore, despite discussions regarding trademarks and branding, the name “Chiefs” is used by several sporting teams internationally across different competitions and codes.
