Fullback Taine Tuaupiki has earned a fourth season with the One New Zealand Warriors after signing a one-year extension to the end of the 2026 NRL season.
The 25-year-old Taharoa-raised Tuaupiki initially joined the Warriors on a train and trial deal in late 2022 before clinching a one-season contract for the 2023 campaign.
After impressing in his rookie NRL campaign his contract was subsequently upgraded for two more seasons to the end of 2025.
“Taine took a chance on becoming an NRL player when he joined us for the 2023 preseason and has made the most of every opportunity he has been given,” said One New Zealand Warriors general manager recruitment, pathways and development Andrew McFadden.
Tuaupiki made his NRL debut in the Warriors’ third-round win over the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville last year, the first of five appearances which saw him named the club’s NRL rookie of the year.
He added six outings to his tally this year including an exceptional display in the memorable 22-20 Magic Round win over premiers the Penrith Panthers in May.
On a day when he made 198 metres from 23 runs, he provided two line breaks, scored the match-levelling try and then converted under extreme pressure for a famous victory.
Match Highlights: Famous win over premiers
“Whether he’s coming into the NRL side or playing in the New South Wales Cup, Taine gives us so much quality,” said One New Zealand Warriors head coach Andrew Webster.
“It’s not just the quality in his play but the energy and enthusiasm he provides every day.”
In his six NRL games this year Tuaupiki averaged 152 metres while he had three try assists, two line breaks and 23 tackle breaks.
In both seasons he has also been a critical contributor to the New South Wales Cup side’s success which saw it fall one game short of the grand final in 2023 and make the finals again this year.
In 26 appearances – 14 in 2023 and 12 in 2024 – he has scored 128 points from 11 tries and 42 goals while averaging 164 metres and producing 20 try assists, 12 line breaks and no fewer than 153 tackle breaks (77 in 2023 and 76 in 2024).
Profile | Taine Tuaupiki
Born: August 31, 1999
Birthplace: Sydney, NSW
Junior clubs: Ngaruawahia Panthers (Waikato), Runaway Bay Seagulls (Queensland)
Position: Fullback
Height: 178cm
Weight: 83kg
Warriors No: 279
NRL debut: One New Zealand Warriors v North Queensland Cowboys, Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville, March 18, 2023 (Rd 3)
NRL appearances: 11 (2023-2024)
NRL points: 10 (1 try, 3 goals)
New South Wales Cup appearances: 26 (2023-2024)
New South Wales Cup points: 128 (11 tries, 42 goals)
