A largely forgettable season for the Magpies did not stop standout players from the campaign receiving higher honors and being picked up by Super Rugby teams for the 2025 season.

Twelve Magpies have been chosen, with seven players joining the Hurricanes, two heading to Moana Pasifika, two to the Highlanders, and one making the leap across the Tasman to join the Brumbies.

The Hurricanes have long drawn on Magpies talent, and this year is no different. Veteran forwards Pouri Rakete-Stones, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Jacob Devery, and Devan Flanders have all been reselected, continuing their roles as key members of the Hurricanes pack.

One newcomer from the Hawke’s Bay forward pack has been put into the mix with New Zealand under 20 lock Tom Allen receiving his first Super Rugby team selection. Adding further strength to the roster, former Moana Pasifika halfback Ere Enari makes his Hurricanes debut, ready to build on his experience from the past three seasons.

Rounding out the Hurricanes' Magpies contingent is versatile back Harry Godfrey, who is anticipated to have a significant role this season, particularly with All Black Brett Cameron sidelined and speculation that Ruben Love might shift into the first five-eighth role, potentially opening up space in the backline.

Moana Pasifika also signed their fair share of Magpies talent, with key members of their backline Danny Toala and Neria Fomai, both entering their third season with the franchise. These selections come at a pivotal time for Moana Pasifika, who have gained considerable momentum with the blockbuster signing of 2023’s World Rugby Player of the Year, Ardie Savea.

Folau Fakatava is once again selected as the Highlanders halfback as they look to build on last season with some fresh signings and make a serious playoff push in 2025. Fakatava was instrumental in the Magpies' early-season success, leading the Duane Monkley Medal standings until an injury in week five sidelined him. Now, as he joins the Highlanders, he’ll be aiming for a standout season to reestablish himself in the race for the coveted All Blacks number 9 jersey. Jonah Lowe also makes his way into selection, looking to come back after being sidelined for the Bunnings NPC competition due to injury. 

Meanwhile, Magpies fans will also be keeping an eye across the Tasman, as 2024’s best back Ben O’Donnell suits up for the Brumbies again. After an impressive 2024 season with the Magpies, O’Donnell is well ready for this second stint on the Brumbies wing, joining them as they set their sights on the Super Rugby Pacific Championship.

Despite a tough season, the Magpies have sent an impressive twelve players into Super Rugby ranks for 2025, proving Hawke's Bay rugby’s depth and talent. With players joining the Hurricanes, Moana Pasifika, Highlanders, and Brumbies, there’s plenty for fans to cheer for as they take on new challenges.

Our Hawke's Bay Tui women have also earned themselves higher honors, with eight players joining Super Rugby Aupiki sides.

Raedeen Blake, Olioli Mua, Denise Aiolupotea, Leilani Hakiwai, and Teilah Ferguson have been selected for the Hurricanes Poua side. They will join Tui veteran Forne Burkin, who is looking to make her comeback season after injury.

Tui veteran and co-captain Krysten Cottrell, alongside the electric Kahlia Awa have also been reselected to the championship-winning side The Blues as they look to have another dominant season. 

Source: Corban Boyd