All Blacks outside back Ben Smith and Māori All Blacks hooker Ash Dixon have been confirmed as Highlanders co-captains for the second successive year.

The duo led the Highlanders to 11 wins and four losses last season, which saw them finish fourth in the New Zealand conference.

Smith will be fresh off his sabbatical when the teams kicks off the season after skipping the All Blacks' northern tour to spend some quality time with his family.

Meanwhile, Dixon has rejoined the Highlanders this week for pre-season training after successfully leading the Māori All Blacks on their tour, which saw them face Canada and a French XV.

The Highlanders start their 2018 Super Rugby campaign against the Blues at home on Friday, February 23.

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