KURT EKLUND

Position
Hooker

Blues debut
2020 v Chiefs

Blues caps
75

Blues points
115

BIOGRAPHY

Born
05/01/92

Height
180cm

Weight
103kg

Province
Bay of Plenty

Kurt Eklund, known to fans as ‘Kurty’, is a hard-grafting, uncompromising hooker whose physicality, work ethic, and leadership have made him a key figure for both the Blues and Bay of Plenty.

He made his professional debut for Auckland in 2015 before overcoming a serious knee injury that sidelined him for 14 months. On his return, he joined Bay of Plenty, where he currently captains the Steamers side.

Eklund debuted for the Blues in 2020 against the Chiefs, quickly becoming a fan favourite with his fearless play and high-impact performances. By 2021, following the retirement of James Parsons, Eklund cemented his role as the Blues’ starting hooker and finished the season as the team’s second top try-scorer.

Over the following seasons, Eklund combined strong on-field performances with leadership responsibilities. He was named Blues Player of the Year in 2022, captained Bay of Plenty to a Bunnings NPC Quarter Final, and continued to develop his game-sharing duties with fellow hooker Ricky Riccitelli.

A builder by trade, Eklund brings both skill and durability to the Blues’ forward pack. He heads into the 2026 season as an experienced and reliable presence, capable of influencing games and creating memorable moments for fans both on and off the field.

He is contracted with the Blues through until the end of the 2026 season.