Waikato midfielder Damien Karauna made seven appearances in his one season for the Hurricanes in 1999, as a back up to the first choice midfield pairing, second five-eighth Jason O’Halloran and centre Alama Ieremia. This included one match starting at centre in his debut against the Bulls and three at second five-eighth at the end of the season

A Sevens specialist Karauna played for New Zealand in many IRB international Sevens tournaments between 1996-2003.

He made the Hurricanes from his home province of Waikato, after scoring eight tries for Waikato in the 1998 season, including six in Ranfurly Shield defences and two in his side’s NPC semi-final win over Canterbury.

In 2000 Karauna played for the Chiefs and for Waikato, posting 50 games for the union that season.