Hannah King joins Matatū for 2025

Matatū are pleased to announce Hannah King will join the squad in 2025.  

The 20 year old has had a breakout 12 months with both the Hurricanes Poua and the Black Ferns. 

She made her Farah Palmer Cup debut in 2022 for Canterbury and, together with recently departed Matatū player Atlanta Lolohea, was that year named Most Promising FPC Player of the Year.  

She earned her Black Ferns call up in May 2024 in the Pacific Four Series against USA, converting three tries. in Hamilton and has since played six fixtures in the black jersey including at Twickenham – a game her father travelled to, his first overseas trip. 

And she’s met the King at Buckingham Palace. 

“I'm really excited to realise a goal and dream of mine to play for Matatū.,” King said. 

“I will be forever grateful to the Hurricanes Poua for the opportunity they gave me last season, but the chance to stay at home and play for the team I grew up around was too good to turn down. 

“Also the opportunity to play with the girls who helped me develop over the years is something I will cherish.” 

King was 16 years old when she first joined the Canterbury FPC wider training squad. From there she has continued to grow her skill set and understanding of the game, while also being supported through the Lincoln University Scholarship programme. 

Whitney Hansen, Matatū Head Coach, said King’s fast rise was “testament to years of humble work”. 

“Hannah is a quality person and player, and has always loved the game,” Hansen said. 

“I remember when we first talked attack shape, when Han was Year 9 or 10 and even back then she just got it, she understood the game.”