The Hurricanes have announced the signing of Japanese international, Warner Dearns, for the 2026 season.
“I’m really excited about the opportunity to join the Hurricanes and take on a new challenge in Super Rugby. I’m looking forward to continuing to grow as a player and giving everything I have for the jersey," Dearns, who plays for the Toshiba Brave Lupus club in Japan, said.
“I’m also incredibly grateful to Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo for supporting me in taking on this challenge in 2026.“
The Wellington-born, 2.02m and 124kg lock, who has made 21 appearances for Japan, adds height and strength to the Hurricanes forward pack.
“It’s really exciting news for the club to sign an international lock in Warner," Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw said.
“He’s a young Kiwi guy who’s plying his trade in Japan. His family moved up there, he’s qualified for Japan, and he’s taking a sabbatical from Toshiba. He had a lot of interest, not just in New Zealand, but around the world, so for him to choose to join the Hurricanes is really exciting.
“Warner has family ties to the Hurricanes region – his sisters live in Wellington, his mum’s the chief executive of Wairarapa Bush Rugby Football Union, his dad has been involved with Hawke’s Bay in the NPC – so there’s a lot of connection to the club.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming him when he comes after the November tests. He’s an exceptional athlete. He’s got a good set piece, particularly at the lineout, as well as around the field, so we think he can really add to our game.
“Warner’s also experienced around the world, in Japan and international rugby, so he’ll be really valuable as we build the team towards next season.”
Warner Dearns
Date of birth: 11 April, 2002 (23-years-old)
Place of birth: Wellington, New Zealand
Position: Lock
Height: 2.02m
Weight: 124kg
International side: Japan (21 tests, 4 tries)
Club side: Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo (62 matches, 11 tries)
Honours: 2x Japan Rugby League One champion (2024, 2025)
