The Highlanders looked to have won the game up 28-12 15 minutes into the second half but the Chiefs came storming back to tie the game up in the last minute.
The home side had a chance right at the death but the ball went to ground instead of hand and the chance was lost.
The match had plenty of action in the first half and the Highlanders should have been up more than the 14-12 at halftime.
The home side scored two converted tries but went close many other times.
The Chiefs had few chances but took them when they arrived.
Best for the Highlanders were halfback Aaron Smith and forwards Jackson Hemopo and Liam Coltman.
Highlanders 31 (Josh Ioane, Ben Smith, Matt Faddes, James Lentjes tries; Ioane 4 con, pen)
Chiefs 31 (Anguys Ta'avao 2, Brad Weber, Luke Jacobson, Tyler Ardron tries; Marty Mckenzie 3 con)
Halftime: 14-12 Highlanders