The Highlanders have suffered their first home loss to the Melbourne Rebels in Dunedin.
The 2015 champions were beaten 28-22 at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Friday night.
Adding to a disappointing night for the Highlanders was a serious ankle injury to captain James Lentjes, who left the field in the first half on a medical vehicle.
The result left them bottom of the New Zealand conference, with just one win from four matches.
