The Hurricanes have today confirmed the signing of young tighthead prop, Hurricanes and New Zealand under-20 representative, Siale Lauaki, until 2025.  

Lauaki, who was first identified at St Patrick's College in Wellington, began his journey with the Hurricanes under-18s as a year 12 student in 2020.  

Since, he has shown tremendous potential, representing both the Hurricanes and New Zealand at under-20's level, before signing with the Hurricanes on a National Development contract for the 2023 season. 

Expressing his excitement, Lauaki said, "It feels pretty surreal. 

“I’ve been supporting this team since I was little and to be a part of it now is a dream come true. I am really grateful to be a part of such a great club with such strong culture, and where I feel like I belong.  

“Being in this environment is a great opportunity for me to be exposed to the areas of my game that need work. It gives me the chance to rub shoulders with world-class props, guys like Owen Franks and Tyrel Lomax, and coaches like Jamie Mackintosh, and learn as much as I can from them,” said Lauaki.  

Assistant Coach, Chris Gibbes, was thrilled to see Lauaki sign with the Hurricanes through to 2025. 

“We’re pleased to have Siale sign on until 2025. He’s been working hard to get here,” said Gibbes. 

Gibbes further praised Lauaki's work ethic, calling him physically imposing and possessing good technique in the scrum. He believes these attributes will make Lauaki a valuable asset to the team and an integral part of the squad in the years to come. 

Hurricanes Recruitment and Development Manager and Hurricanes U20s Head coach, Darren Larsen said Lauaki’s signing was another nod to the success of the Hurricanes' systems and development pathway.  

“Siale is already a quality prop, with size and stature on his side, but it’s his potential that we are focused on now.  

“He’s been working hard on his strength and conditioning, which has helped him align with his explosiveness on the field. His strength gains are seeing him compete in our live scrum sessions, proving his ability to play at the Super level,” said Larsen.  

In addition to his rugby commitments, Lauaki is also busy with his building apprenticeship and continues to play community rugby for his club, Tawa.  

This balance of rugby life and family is something that the Hurricanes appreciate, aligning with the club’s "values of living in the swirl,” said Larsen.