The side announced its draw for the 12-team tournament yesterday. It will have a tough game first up, taking on the defending champions, the Chiefs, on Friday.
Almost four hours later the Highlanders will face the Waratahs.
The tournament last year was played on Saturday and Sunday but this year has been changed to Friday, February 9 and Saturday, February 10. There are only 12 teams in this year's tournament.
The Highlanders are not expected to play any of their All Blacks but will still fancy their chances, although they will be up against three quality sides.
French side Pau, which the Highlanders will also face, announced over the weekend former All Blacks and Highlanders prop Carl Hayman will be its special wildcard player.
Hayman is the forwards coach for the Pau side, which also includes All Blacks Conrad Smith, Tom Taylor and Jamie Mackintosh.