The Wellington Hurricanes ended a turbulent week with an 18-18 Super Rugby draw with the Waikato Chiefs on Friday night, leaving Waikato in last place in the New Zealand conference.

The Hurricanes were thrown into turmoil midweek when rookie coach Mark Hammett announced All Blacks Ma'a Nonu and Andrew Hore - veterans of more than 200 matches - would not be offered contracts next season.

The decision angered Hurricanes fans and reportedly caused divisions within the team.

Both Hore and Nonu rose above their personal disappointments to play important roles in Friday's match.

Hore scored the Hurricanes' only try of the first half and Nonu created a brilliant second-half try which helped to tie the scores after the Chiefs led 15-5 at halftime.

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