Ngatungane Punivai, Hurricane #314, has recommitted to the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby through to 2027.
Punivai debuted for the Hurricanes in 2024 against the Rebels in Palmerston North. The 26-year-old has shown his versatility in the backline, impressing across the wing and centre positions.
Originally from Lower Hutt, he was educated at Christ’s College in Christchurch where he captained their 1st XV side, as well as being deputy head prefect. Punivai consistently displays leadership qualities that are valuable in the Hurricanes environment and on the field.
Punivai said “It’s a proud moment for me and my family to be staying with the Hurricanes for a couple more seasons. We love this club and feel right at home here. I’m looking forward to continuing my growth on and off the field and I’m also super excited to see what we can achieve over the next few years.”
Head Coach Clark Laidlaw said “Super excited to have Ngane extend, he’s playing the best rugby of his career this season and he’s done a huge amount of work on getting his body right and trusting his body to play at the level he’s playing at. He had a tough couple years with injury and getting the consistency, but he has found that sweet sport.”
“Originally from here, it’s great that him and his family have been able to settle down in Wellington and it’s great to have him stay and play for his hometown. We’re hopeful he will continue his good form and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can do in the next couple of seasons.”
