Hurricanes lock up All Black prop Siale Lauaki on long-term deal through 2029

The Hurricanes have secured the long-term future of All Black prop Siale Lauaki, with the 23-year-old signing a deal that runs through the 2029 Super Rugby Pacific season — a contract that also keeps him in New Zealand for the British and Irish Lions tour that year.

Lauaki made his All Blacks debut on tour in South Africa earlier this season, featuring in three midweek matches after being named in Dave Rennie’s 44-man squad. His tour debut came against the Stormers in Cape Town, and his performances clearly left an impression on both Rennie and scrum coach Jason Ryan.

The former New Zealand U20 representative first appeared for the Hurricanes in 2024 against the Fijian Drua, having previously won two national titles with Wellington. His ability to operate on both sides of the scrum has been a key factor in his rapid rise through the ranks.

Head coach Clark Laidlaw was effusive about the signing, pointing to Lauaki’s development as evidence of what the club’s coaching environment can produce. “He’s a player who has developed extremely well here over the past few years through the work he’s been doing with our coaches,” Laidlaw said.

“The maturity of being 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’ll be hugely proud of.”

Laidlaw also highlighted Lauaki’s qualities beyond the set piece. “Siale’s an amazing player with a great skill set, loves defending, and is ever improving in the set piece. It’s excellent news for us that he’s committed long-term and we look forward to his continued growth as a Hurricane.”

The deal adds further depth to an already formidable Hurricanes front row that includes All Blacks props Pasilio Tosi, Tyrel Lomax and Xavier Numia.

Lauaki said the club’s continued backing made the decision straightforward. “I’m grateful to be with this club and to be part of the Hurricanes family,” he said. “The club has given me so many opportunities and I’m looking forward to doing my best to make the most of this latest opportunity over the next few years.”