While it seemed likely after Friday night's comprehensive win over the Blues, it took a further 24 hours to confirm, with the Chiefs going down to the Hurricanes 21-13 in New Plymouth.
As a result of the Brumbies loss to the Crusaders, it will be the Chiefs that the Highlanders will face next week.
To surpass the Highlanders for the fourth spot and obtain the home match, the Chiefs were required beat the Hurricanes by 37 points and pick up a bonus point in the process. It always seemed unlikely and so it proved.
The Hurricanes will enjoy a week off for the first round of the playoffs after finisging top. The Waratahs also have a irst-round bye, defeating the Queensland Reds 31-5 on Saturday night.
South African Conference champion Stormers will host the Brumbies
SUPER RUGBY PLAYOFFS
June 20
Highlanders vs Chiefs, Dunedin, 7.35pm
June 21
Stormers vs Brumbies, Cape Town, 3.05am
SEMIFINALS
June 27
Hurricanes (New Zealand) vs lowest ranked wildcard winner, Wellington, 7.35pm
NSW Waratahs (Australia) vs highest ranked wildcard winner, Sydney, 9.40pm
