Former Māori All Blacks captain Kurt Eklund has been forced to retire from professional rugby with immediate effect after receiving medical advice over a long-standing neck problem.
The 34-year-old hooker confirmed his playing career is over after battling neck injuries for several years.
Eklund had been due to continue his career in Japan after agreeing a move to Yokohama Canon Eagles, but those plans have now been abandoned.
“That’s all she wrote”
Announcing the decision on social media, Eklund revealed doctors had advised him that walking away from rugby was in his best interests.
“That’s all she wrote,” he wrote.
“I’ve been battling neck injuries for the past few years and I’ve been told it’s in my best interest to step away from the game, so that’s what I am going to do.”
It brings an abrupt end to an impressive career which included 75 appearances for the Blues, having made his debut against the Chiefs in 2020.
The Blues describe Eklund as a “hard-grafting, uncompromising hooker”, with the front-rower also named the franchise’s Player of the Year in 2022.
He was part of the Blues squad during their hugely successful 2024 campaign, with his performances subsequently earning him selection for the All Blacks XV.
Eklund also represented the Māori All Blacks and was handed the captaincy in 2025.
Overseas move collapses
The hooker had been preparing for the next chapter of his career after agreeing to join Japan Rugby League One outfit Yokohama Canon Eagles.
The Japanese club officially announced Eklund among their new arrivals for the 2026/27 season alongside fellow New Zealand stars Stephen Perofeta and Samipeni Finau.
At the time, Eklund said it was an honour to join the Eagles and that he could not wait to begin training with his new teammates.
However, his persistent neck problems have prevented the move from becoming the next chapter of his playing career.
Eklund had not featured since the latter stages of the Super Rugby Pacific season and has now been advised to call time on his career.
His retirement prompted messages from across New Zealand rugby, including former All Blacks captain Sam Cane and Ruben Love.
Cane described him as a “top man”, while Love thanked Eklund for making him feel welcome when he first entered the Māori All Blacks environment.
Eklund also made a significant contribution at provincial level with Bay of Plenty, where he became a prominent figure both on and off the field.
His retirement brings an unexpectedly early end to a career which saw him represent the Blues, Bay of Plenty, Māori All Blacks and All Blacks XV.
Tributes pour in
The announcement prompted an outpouring of messages from teammates, friends and family, with several tributes highlighting the impact Eklund made away from the pitch.
His father, Mark Eklund, posted an emotional message: “I sit here with tears running down my cheeks, but I couldn’t be prouder son of all that you have achieved both on and off the field.
“You’re the man and Ranger is well placed with you as his role model. Go attack whatever’s ahead. I’ll always be behind you mate. Love love love you.”
All Blacks star Ruben Love recalled how Eklund welcomed him into the Māori All Blacks set-up in 2022.
He wrote: “All the best brother. Made me feel welcomed first day Māori ABs 2022 will never forget. Respect bro!”
Former All Blacks captain Sam Cane was another to send his support, writing: “Top man. Sorry to hear it finish this way bro. All the best for the next venture.”
Du’Plessis Kirifi added: “One of the greats brother. Congratulations on an amazing career.”
The tributes painted a clear picture of Eklund's standing among those who played alongside him — a hugely respected figure whose influence stretched well beyond what he achieved on the field.
