The Highlanders have signed a couple of their younger brigade for the next two seasons.
Lock Tom Franklin and midfielder Jason Emery have re signed with the Highlanders to the end of the 2017 season.
Franklin, who made his debut in 2014, has played 15 games for the Highlanders and has been a regular starter this season.
The Otago man has made big strides this year and has formed a very effective locking partnership with Joe Wheeler.
A former New Zealand colt, he has popped up all around the field, throwing his body around.
Coach Jamie Joseph said Franklin was a passionate player who had worked hard.
''Over the last few seasons, he has done everything asked of him and we are delighted with where he is at right now,'' Joseph said.
''The modern lock has a difficult role but we believe Tom has all the attributes to go a long way in the game. I am excited about his future and what he will bring to our team.''
Franklin (24) said he had learned a lot over the past couple of years and it was not a hard decision to stay with the Highlanders.
Emery joined the Highlanders in 2013 and has played 21 games for the franchise. He has grown slowly over the years but has added some physicality and abrasiveness to his game this year.
Assistant coach Tony Brown said Emery had improved every year and it was good to see him stay in the South, as his best rugby was yet to come.
Emery, who plays provincial rugby for Manawatu, said he enjoyed the region, and it was the right balance between rugby and having fun.
The 21 year old started at second five eighth for the Highlanders against the Blues on Saturday night.