18/08/2026
Lesssshhhgooooo ππ€ Congrats to our main man Ants and to π Miti and Joel
250 CAPS. THREE BULLER MEN. A WHOLE LOT GIVEN TO THE RED & BLUE.
This Saturday is a special one for Buller Rugby as we celebrate three significant milestones - 250 Buller caps between three men who have each made this province home in their own way.
MITIELI KALOUDIGIBECI - 100 BULLER CAPS
From Fiji to Buller, Miti first pulled on the red and blue in 2008 after making his mark in club rugby with Westport RFC.
Now, 18 years later, Miti reaches an incredible 100 games for Buller.
Across those years he has represented our province on the wing, at centre and fullback, playing his part in some memorable Buller sides. 100 games is a huge achievement and recognition of Miti's commitment to Buller Rugby and all he has given to the game in our province.
ANTHONY ELLIS - 100 BULLER CAPS
Anthony first pulled on the Buller jersey in 2015 after moving from Wellington - and more than a decade later, Buller is well and truly home.
Anthony has gone on to captain his province and this season has taken on a player-coach role, continuing to give back to the game.
Alongside his partner and three children, Anthony's contribution extends well beyond Heartland. He gives his time throughout our pathways, from our littlest Under 6s through to secondary school 1st XV.
On Saturday, he joins a very special group to have represented Buller 100 times.
JOEL HANDS - 50 BULLER CAPS
For Joel, Buller Rugby is quite literally home.
Buller born and bred, Joel made his Buller senior debut in 2018 and has been a consistent presence in the red and blue ever since.
A farmer from a long line of Buller farming stock, Joel balances rugby with life on the farm and with his partner and two boys, while continuing to put in the work for his province.
From scoring two tries in Westport's 2018 Senior Shield victory to reaching 50 games for Buller, it's a pretty special milestone for a local lad who has grown up in our game.
Three different rugby journeys. Three men who have given plenty to our game. And 250 reasons to celebrate this Saturday.
Congratulations Miti, Antz and Joel - an incredible contribution to the Buller jersey.