nib BLUES SECURE RISING STAR AMARANTE SITITI

The Blues have secured one of New Zealand’s most exciting emerging talents, Amarante Sititi, for the 2026 Super Rugby Aupiki season.

At just 18 years old, Sititi arrives fresh out of Auckland Girls Grammar School with an already impressive resume, having made her Farah Palmer Cup debut for the Auckland Storm in 2025.

In her breakthrough season, the loose forward was recognised as Auckland Rugby’s FPC Emerging Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year - a reflection of both her impact on the field and the respect she has earned within team environments.

A powerful presence in the loose forwards, Sititi predominantly covers blindside flanker and No. 8, bringing a physical edge and ball-carrying ability reminiscent of her brother, All Blacks loose forward Wallace Sititi.

Her performances have also seen her rewarded with a New Zealand Rugby National Development Contract (NDC) for 2026.

Blues head coach Willie Walker said Sititi’s signing reflects the club’s commitment to developing the next generation of elite players.

“Amarante is an exceptional young athlete with a huge ceiling, and it’s great that we have been able to retain such a great player from our region,” Walker said.

“She’s already shown in a short space of time that she can compete physically at a high level, and what stands out is her work ethic and mindset. She’s the type of player who embraces the big moments and brings others with her.

“Her ability as a ball carrier, her defensive presence and willingness to learn make her a really exciting addition to our environment. We’re looking forward to helping her grow her game within our programme.”