Highlanders sign former Crusaders and Waratahs hooker Ioane Moananu

Wednesday, 22 July 2026

Ioane Moananu has finally been given an opportunity by another New Zealand Super Rugby franchise.

After heading across the Tasman to play for the Waratahs this year, the former Crusader has signed a two-year deal with the Highlanders.

Moananu was excellent for the Crusaders across a few campaigns, but the red and blacks didn’t have room for him this year with Codie Taylor, George Bell and the highly rated Manumaua Letiu on the books.

However, as Moananu told Newstalk ZB last year, he asked his agent to reach out to the four other New Zealand franchises ahead of the 2026 season, but multiple offers as the “fourth hooker” was the best he got.

Explosive around the park, and with a nose for the line, the 25-year-old Counties Manukau rake had an impressive campaign for the Waratahs before returning home ahead of the looming NPC.

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And he can stay in New Zealand, heading south to Dunedin later this year to join a team which had more than its fair share of lineout issues this year, which was highlighted by Southlander Jack Taylor’s throwing woes.

“Ioane’s journey shows his resilience and hunger to grow. He’s performed well in two strong Super Rugby environments and we believe he’ll thrive here. His physicality, skill set and energy suit the Highlanders style and we’re excited to see what he can do over the next two years,” Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph said.

Moananu played 26 games and scored 13 tries across his stints with the Crusaders and Waratahs, who he scored six times for this year.

“I’m really excited to be back playing in New Zealand. I’m extremely grateful to the Highlanders for the opportunity and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and making a strong contribution to the team.

“I can’t wait to meet the guys, become part of the club, and embrace everything Dunedin and the South has to offer. Playing indoors at Forsyth Barr Stadium in front of the Zoo is something special - Highlanders supporters create an amazing atmosphere and I can’t wait to experience that again.”