New Zealander · Lower Hutt, New Zealand · Born 23 January 1992TJ Perenara is a dynamic All Blacks scrum-half who was part of New Zealand's 2015 Rugby World Cup winning squad.
Thomas Tekanapu Rawakata "TJ" Perenara was born on 23 January 1992 in Porirua, New Zealand, and grew up in the suburb of Titahi Bay, attending Mana College, where he represented New Zealand Schools before making his provincial debut for the Wellington Lions. He is cousin to a wide-reaching rugby family that includes former All Black Sonny Bill Williams. Perenara won the 2011 Junior World Championship with New Zealand's under-20 side, and made a spectacular Super Rugby debut for the Hurricanes in 2012, scoring three tries on his first appearance against the Western Force. He made his senior All Blacks debut in 2014, coming off the bench for Aaron Smith, beginning a long-running rivalry and understudy relationship with the man who would become New Zealand's most-capped scrum-half. Perenara became the Hurricanes' most-capped player of all time with 163 appearances, and eventually succeeded Aaron Smith as the All Blacks' first-choice scrum-half in 2024, following Smith's retirement after the 2023 World Cup final. Perenara earned dozens of caps himself across a decade of international duty from 2014 to 2024. Perenara moved to Japan's Black Rams Tokyo in 2024, continuing his career in the Japan Rugby League One competition after retiring from Test rugby, closing out one of the most durable and well-travelled careers among modern All Blacks half-backs.
Long-serving All Blacks scrum-half, 2015 World Cup winner
How They Played
Perenara is known for his quick service from the base of rucks and scrums, providing fast ball to his backs. He possesses excellent leadership skills and game management abilities, often directing play around the field. His strong running game and ability to snipe around the fringes makes him a dual threat with ball in hand.
Lasting Impact
Perenara established himself as one of New Zealand's most reliable scrum-halves during a golden era for the All Blacks.
Career Honours
- Rugby World Cup winner 2015
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hurricanes | 2012–2023 | 171 | 0 | #9 |
| Wellington | 2011–2023 | — | — | — |
 New Zealand | — | 76 | 11 | — |
New Zealander Athletes