ERONI CLARKE NAMED IN NEW YEAR HONOURS

Eroni Clarke has been named a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to the Pacific community and sport in the New Year Honours.

Clarke, Blues #13, played 48 games for the club from 1996-2000 and was part of the team that lifted the inaugural Super Rugby trophy.

Clarke, whose son Caleb currently plays for the Blues, is NZ Rugby’s Pasifika Engagement Manager.

“Eroni was an electric player at every level, with pace, power and skill taking him all the way to the black jersey. He’s now using his personal experience to help create culturally competent spaces within rugby to enable Pasifika to thrive in all aspects of the game,” NZR Acting CEO Steve Lancaster said.

“His impact on Pasifika communities transcends rugby, which this honour duly acknowledges. We value having his passion, expertise and ability to connect across cultures in our game.”