The Hurricanes have revealed their list of departing players for 2025, which includes the already announced exit of Peter Umaga-Jensen, along with seven others.
Having bowed out of the Super Rugby Pacific playoffs in the qualifying finals, the team are now in offseason mode as they look to build a young squad into champions.
That process will have to be undertaken without the services of Umaga-Jensen, who has read the lay of the land and chosen his moment to pick up a contract in Japan.
With the impending return of recently crowned URC champion Jordie Barrett, along with the emergence of rising All Blacks XV star Riley Higgins, Umaga-Jensen’s position is well covered.
Outside of the lone departing midfielder, the list of leavers is youthful, with a particular surprise being found in the second row. Zach Gallagher, the 23-year-old lock with All Blacks XV experience from 2022, will leave the Wellington club after just one season.
Gallagher was lured north from the Crusaders and quickly proved to be the fittest forward in the Wellington group when the preseason bronco was run.
It was Gallagher who drew the most attention from Hurricanes fans online when this list was released, given his impressive form in the engine room throughout an injury-riddled 2025.
The complete list of Hurricanes departures is:
- Zach Gallagher – #324 (9 caps)
- Peter Umaga-Jensen – #252 (54 caps)
- Will Tucker – #320 (7 caps)
- Riley Hohepa – #308, (12 caps)
- Daniel Sinkinson – #309 (6 caps)
- Kade Banks – #321 (2 caps)
- Lucas Cashmore
- Josh Taula
Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee said, “We would like to acknowledge the players that are leaving. They have all contributed to the club in 2025, and we wish them all the best for their future endeavours.
“I will also make special mention of Peter Umaga-Jensen. Peter has been a fantastic player for us, and we hope that Japan is a great experience for him and his young family.”
