TJ Perenara, the first player to reach 150 games for the Hurricanes has recommitted to the club and New Zealand Rugby for a further two years, through until the end of 2025. 

Since a memorable hat-trick on debut in 2012, the then 20-year-old quickly became a Hurricanes fan favorite, nailing down the number nine jersey. 

Upon recommiting to the Hurricanes for 2024 and 2025 Perenara said “I’m excited to re-sign with the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby. This last year has been tough missing out through injury, so having the opportunity to come back and play for the teams that I love, was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.” 

 Alongside his 150 matches for the Hurricanes, Perenara, of Ngati Rangatihi descent has made 80 appearances for the All Blacks and has represented the Māori All Blacks and All Blacks XV  

Hurricanes CEO, Avan Lee said he was thrilled to retain the half-back for the next two seasons. 

“TJ is a really important person within the Hurricanes.  He has grown into an excellent leader and he has so much passion for the jersey and club. We are delighted that he has extended his time with us.” 

A Super Rugby champion in 2016, Perenara spent 2021 in Japan with NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes and lead the side to the quarter-finals of the then, Japan Top League. Returning to NZ, he quickly re-established himself in the All Blacks set up. 

31-year-old Perenara has played 150 games for the Hurricanes, scoring 292 points. He is the second most-capped Hurricane, has won a Rugby World Cup, alongside Super Rugby and an NPC title with the Wellington Lions. 

TJ Perenara career at a glance

2010 – 2020 + 2021 – Present - Wellington Lions 

2012-2020 + 2022 – Present - Hurricanes 

2021 – NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes 

2014 – Present - All Blacks 

2022 – Māori All Blacks 

2022 – All Blacks XV