The Hurricanes announced they have re-signed talented defensemen Harry Godfrey and Ngatungane Punivai for at least the next two seasons. Punibhai has renewed his contract until 2026, while Godfrey will remain in the capital for the next three seasons.
Godfrey’s ability to play both fullback and first five-eighth could be crucial for the Hurricanes moving forward. With first-choice flyhalf Brett Cameron set to miss the entire 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season with a knee injury, Godfrey could potentially help cover that role.
After playing two matches during the 2022 National Provincial Championship season, Godfrey took a huge step forward by making his debut for the Hurricanes the following season and representing the ‘Baby Blacks’ at the World Rugby U20 Championship.
The Whanganui University alumnus played five games at fullback during the South African Championships. Aside from a few starts over the last few seasons, Godfrey has primarily been used as an impact player off the bench for the Hurricanes.
Coach Clark Laidlaw named Godfrey in the First XV for the quarter-final clash with the Melbourne Rebels in June. Now, after another strong season with Hawke’s Bay on the NPC (appearing in 5 out of 6 episodes), Godfrey is in a good position for the future.
“Growing up in the area, it has always been a dream of mine to be a part of this club and I am very grateful to be able to stay at the club for the next three years,” Godfrey said in a statement.
“The ‘Canes are in a really good position and there are a lot of opportunities for me to grow my game. I am very excited to move forward and do my best.”
Punivai boasts a wealth of experience at Super Rugby level, with outside backs playing for the Crusaders, Highlanders, Chiefs and now the Hurricanes. The 26-year-old made his debut for the Canes in a round-robin match against the Rebels at Palmerston North on March 22.
Coach Laidlaw started Punivai at outside center for the round five Trans-Tasman derby. Punivai made another appearance for the Hurricanes this year and that was in their round 6 clash with the Highlanders at the Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin.
“Being able to re-sign with the ‘Canes’ is a proud moment for me and my family,” Punivai explained. “Coming back last season was a perfect moment for this Petone boy, and to be able to stay for a few more years is very special.”
The Hurricanes appear to be building their team well ahead of next year’s campaign, especially on the outside defense. Last week, the Hurricanes announced that they had signed North Harbor’s Cade Banks for the 2025 class.
Banks has scored 10 tries in this year’s NPC campaign. This included four tries in one match in a 43-29 win over Waikato at North Harbor Stadium. Like Godfrey and Punivai, the bank has the potential to become an important piece of the hurricane puzzle.
“We are delighted that Ngatungane and Harry have re-signed with us,” explained Coach Clark Laidlaw. “Their versatility and skill add real depth to our backline.
“Ngatungane’s ability to move between wing and central positions is a huge strength and he has performed very well this NPC season.
“Harry is an outstanding player who came through the path of the Hurricanes. Again, his ability to play at both 10s and 15s is something we want to develop and the growth and maturity he has shown in Hawke’s Bay in recent weeks has impressed us.”
