Tevita Mafileo joins Chiefs as Siale Lauaki extends Hurricanes contract

The Chiefs have signed All Blacks XV prop Tevita Mafileo to a two-year contract, marking his return to the Hamilton-based club where he began his Super Rugby Pacific career. Mafileo, 28, joins the Chiefs following seven seasons with the Hurricanes. His move is intended to bolster the Chiefs' front row following the departures of Reuben O'Neill and Sione Ahio.

Meanwhile, the Hurricanes have secured the long-term future of 23-year-old prop Siale Lauaki, who has signed a contract extension through 2029. Lauaki, a product of the Hurricanes’ development programme and a recent All Blacks debutant, joins Tyrel Lomax and Cam Roigard as part of the club's core group committed to the team through 2029.