Exciting utility back Chase Tiatia is joining the Magpies for the 2022 Bunnings NPC the Hawke’s Bay Rugby Union has announced today.

The former St Pats Silverstream schoolboy star who has represented both Wellington and Bay of Plenty at NPC level is a devastating attacking player and was recognized as the most outstanding NPC player in 2019 by being awarded the coveted Duane Monkley Medal.

While in Super Rugby Tiatia has starred for both the Hurricanes and the Chiefs including being an integral part of the chiefs’ fantastic run to the semifinals of this year’s Super Rugby Pacific where his ability to attack from deep and offload in the tackle causing opposition defenses plenty of headaches.

“I am very excited to join the Magpies for this coming NPC season, the Magpies have always played an exciting brand of rugby and I am looking forward to being a part of that this year”, Tiatia stated today.

Magpies coach Josh Syms said ‘’Obviously I have a long-standing relationship with Chase going back to his school days and have always joked about getting him here to the Magpies. It’s great that all the moons have aligned, and we’ve been able to make that a reality”.

Tiatia who has played first class rugby at first five, midfield, wing and at fullback will bolster an already exciting backline including 10 players fresh back from super rugby duties. Syms added “Chase brings outstanding experience and game breaking ability to an already potent Magpies backline. I’m excited to have Chase joining us and bring a new edge to our attack”

TiatIa added ‘’I can’t wait to run out in black and white for Hawke’s Bay, I know they have a fantastic fan base, and I will be doing my utmost to try and help them retain the shield and win the NPC ‘’

Hawke’s Bay Rugby Chief Executive Jay Campbell confirmed ‘’Securing Chase will provide the Magpies some real x-factor and add another level of depth across our squad but equally his experience and professionalism will help bring on our younger players, some who are set to be announced in our NPC squad for the first time’’

Tiatia has recently signed with the Mark Ozich coached Western Force and will arrive in Hawke’s Bay in time for the preseason, with Magpies fans getting their first chance to see him in black and white when they defend the Ranfurly Shield against neighbors Poverty Bay on Saturday July 30th.