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The Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby have secured the long-term services of new All Black prop Siala Lauaki.
Lauaki signed a contract until the end of 2029 Super Rugby Pacific season, keeping him in New Zealand for the British and Irish in 2029 Lions tour.
Lauaki was named in All black people‘ 44 man squad for the tour South Africa and featured on three occasions during midweek matches. This prop made its debut on the All Blacks tour against Stormers in Cape Town.
Ex New Zealand U20 the prop is known for his versatility and has clearly impressed All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie and scrum coach Jason Ryan during his short stint in the national team environment.
It gives Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw consistency in the front row, adding to his impressive contingent of All Blacks props including Pasilio Tosi, Tyrel Lomax and Xavier Numia.
Lauaki made his Hurricanes debut in 2024 against Fiji’s Drua and previously won two national titles with Wellington.
“Obviously it’s big news for us and for him,” Laidlaw said.
“He is a player who has developed extremely well here over the past few years through the work he has done with our coaches.”
Laidlaw, who has seen Lauaki develop over the past three seasons, said the 23-year-old continues to develop in the team he represents.
“The maturity to be able to play both sides of the scrum at such a young age in Super Rugby and then to be selected for the All Blacks on their tour of South Africa is something he will be very proud of.
“He’ll still be highly motivated to try and get the All Blacks going forward, and it’s great to have consistency in the front row, which is a strength of our squad.
“Siale is an incredible player with a great skill set, loves defense and is constantly improving in the set. It’s great news for us that he’s committed long-term and we look forward to his continued development as a Hurricane.”
Lauaki said he was excited to develop at the club that handed him his Super Rugby Pacific debut and continued to support him.
“I’m grateful to be at this club and to be part of the Hurricanes family,” Lauaki said.
“The club has given me so many opportunities and I look forward to doing my best to take advantage of this latest opportunity over the next few years.”
