Tuku Hau Tapuha has confirmed that he would stay with the Cronulla Sharks until at least the end of the 2025 season, marking the re-signing of yet another forward.
The 22-year-old didn’t make his club debut during a season where he played for the Newtown Jets, but he did join the Shire at the beginning of 2023 after leaving the Sydney Roosters.
The forward, who had previously appeared in three NRL games for the Sydney Roosters, was expected to be released by the organisation at the end of the season.
The Sharks confirmed he has been re-signed on a deal that will keep him with the team through at least the end of the following season, so those assumptions were completely dashed.
According to Darren Mooney, general manager of football for the team, his abilities have impressed the coaching staff.
“In a club statement confirming the new contract, Sharks General Manager Football Darren Mooney said that Tuku is an outstanding young prospect who is still honing his craft as a front rower.”
Since he joined us around this time last year, his attitude, dedication, and capacity for learning have really impressed the coaching team.
“At only 22 years of age, we are all looking forward to his continued growth and development over the next two seasons.”
Hau Tapuha is the club’s most recent re-signee, joining Royce Hunt (2025), Jesse Colquhoun (2026), and Braden Hamlin-Uele (2026). Dale Finucane (2025) and Toby Rudolf (2026) are also signed through the end of this year.
At the beginning of 2025, Addin Fonua-Blake also joins the Sharks from the New Zealand Warriors, raising serious concerns about the futures of players such as Jack Williams, who is not under contract, and Thomas Hazelton, who has a club option, and Oregon Kaufusi, who has a mutual option.
The forward, who was born in Auckland, stated that he was thrilled to stay with the Shire and that it would mean a lot to make his Sharks debut.
Hau Tapuha expressed his happiness at being able to return to this club for the upcoming season.
“I’m excited for this year; it’s a big year for the team as a whole and for me personally, and I’m looking forward to the challenge.
“The culture and atmosphere of the Sharks are what really catch my attention.
“When a place is enjoyable, everything else falls into place. You really don’t have to worry about anything else while you’re doing what you love and having a great time.
He answered, “It would mean a lot.”
“The middle of our team is quite strong. I believe that our senior playing group truly sets the standard, and breaking into the top 17 does present a significant challenge as well as a more satisfying accomplishment.
“But it definitely is a big goal to not only get into that 17 but stay in there.”
March 8 is when the Sharks and NSW Cup-level Newtown Jets kick off their respective campaigns against the New Zealand Warriors and the Warriors in Auckland.
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