Tuaupiki locked in until 2026

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.