International rugby coach Wayne Pivac is returning to Pakuranga, today announced as the new Director of Rugby.

Pivac first held this role 15 years ago before taking on the head coaching role at Auckland and then moving to Wales where he spent five years coaching the Scarlets in the PRO12 league and three years in charge of the Welsh national team. He returns to New Zealand after a brief stint coaching in Japan to replace Grant ‘Boof’ Henson at the club.

Pakuranga Rugby General Manager Mike Anderson highlighted a world class appointment for the club.

“It is humbling as General Manager and a long-time club member, to have someone of Wayne’s experience and skills set, make a commitment to the Pakuranga United Rugby Club. 

“He has expressed a genuine desire to engage with players from school level and show player pathways, mentor coaches, like he has been mentored over his coaching journey. I am looking forward to work with Wayne.”    

Pivac said, “I am absolutely thrilled to be joining forces once again with the team at Pakuranga Rugby. I’m very much looking forward to the new role, where I will be able to help players coaches and administrators within the club and supporting schools”

He replaces Grant ‘Boof’ Henson in the Director of Rugby position which Boof held for four years. In this time the club has seen the introduction of a women’s XVs programme, a National Club Cup title for the Under 85kg Panthers and several players promoted to higher honours, including Oscar Cowley-Andrea debuting for Auckland, and Harlyn Saunoa and Randall Baker selected in the New Zealand Under 20s.

Boof will see the season out as premier head coach in 2025, with appointments for 2026 to be confirmed later in the year.
 

Article added: Thursday 19 June 2025