Former Leeds and Castleford forward leaves the UK

Former Leeds and Castleford forward Weller Hauraki has departed the UK after 11 years in the country.

The New Zealander first joined the Crusaders RL in 2010 after a spell in the NRL with Parramatta Eels and quickly established himself as one of the most feared back-rowers in the competition.

His form for the Welsh side earned him a move to Leeds Rhinos, where he stayed for two years, playing in the Rhinos’ 2011 Challenge Cup Final loss to Wigan – though he missed out on a place at that year’s Grand Final.

Hauraki moved to Castleford ahead of the 2013 season and played a key role in the Tigers’ first Challenge Cup Final appearance since 1992 the year after.

Moves to Salford, Widnes and then finally Hull KR capped off Hauraki’s tour of Super League, with his last stop at Rovers ending with him being made captain.

At 36, the Kiwi will be going home with his young family after a stellar Super League career.

Well the time has come to move me and my family back home to New Zealand and start our next journey from signing a two year deal with crusaders 11yrs later in the Uk lol has been a awesome experience for me and Jen and the family but loved every minute just want to say goodbye to

— Weller Hauraki (@Weller_hauraki) August 26, 2021

all our family and friends we have made while we’ve been here sorry we couldn’t have a proper farewell due to covid but you guys will always be apart of our lives. Massive love and thank you to Skd & Georgie Kent and Vicki for letting us crash at their place for a couple weeks 🙌🏾

— Weller Hauraki (@Weller_hauraki) August 26, 2021