New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has confirmed Black Ferns prop Tanya Kalounivale will not take part in Super Rugby Aupiki this season after moving to Australia for family reasons.
NZR Head of Women’s High Performance Hannah Porter said: “From a rugby point of view we would have loved for Tanya to have extended her contract with New Zealand Rugby, but we fully understand her decision to move to Australia and support her family. We wish her all the best and hope to see her back on a rugby field soon.”
Kalounivale, who has played 29 Tests for the Black Ferns, most recently during April’s Pacific Four wins over Canada and the United States, said she was pausing her rugby ambitions in New Zealand to focus on family.
“I’ll absolutely miss my teammates and the Black Ferns environment, but family comes first, so it was an easy decision in the end to head move to Australia. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and won’t be giving up on my rugby ambitions, but for now that’s not going to be possible in New Zealand.”
Kalounivale has represented the Chiefs Manawa since 2021 and Waikato Women in the Farah Palmer Cup since 2017.
Black Ferns Head Coach Whitney Hansen said: “We are fully supportive and understanding of Tanya’s situation. She is a talented and valued member of our Black Ferns whānau and will be missed as a player and a presence in the Black Ferns team environment. We are incredibly grateful for the contribution she has made so far to not just the Black Ferns, but also New Zealand Rugby, and are looking forward to seeing what is next for her.”
With thanks to New Zealand Rugby
