Crusaders captain and Tasman Mako leader David Havili will return to provincial colours before heading offshore, confirming 2026 was his final season in red and black as he prepares for a move to Japan.
David says he will turn out for Tasman Mako this NPC season, a side he captained in 2025, before departing with his wife for the next chapter of his career.
The midfielder leaves the Crusaders after more than a decade and more than 150 games, building a reputation for consistency, leadership and commitment to the jersey.
During that time, David also stepped onto the international stage, becoming All Black #1161 and playing 32 Tests for New Zealand.
“I definitely feel like it’s time for me to move on with the next generation coming through. The legacy is in great hands,” David says.
“I’m very content. I know that I’ve done everything I can and I’m very proud of my journey and where I’ve come from. To be able to live out my dream here for about 15 years and be part of this legacy with some of the best players that have ever come through this club, it’s been an extreme honour.”
For Tasman supporters, David’s return provides a chance to see the experienced back in Mako colours again before he heads overseas.
The 31-year-old says the decision was not influenced by missing All Blacks selection, having already made the commitment to Japan.
Instead, it reflects a desire for a new challenge after achieving the milestones he set for himself, including captaining the Crusaders and surpassing 150 matches.
From his early days playing in post-earthquake Christchurch at Apollo Projects Stadium, to leading the side into a new era at One New Zealand Stadium, David has experienced the full journey of modern Crusaders rugby.
“The team’s in a great spot. With Scott Hansen coming in and strong talent coming through, it’s very exciting. There’s a lot of mana around that group and I’m looking forward to seeing what they can do.”
While his final Super Rugby season did not end in silverware, he says leading the side to a title after a 10th-placed finish in 2024, and helping complete a 32–0 record at Apollo Projects Stadium, stands out.
“To go from 10th into 2024 to winning another title and being back where we belong and sending off Apollo with a 32–0 record, that was probably the highlight of my career - leading this team to a title and I’m just so grateful that Penz gave me that opportunity to be able to do it.”
Despite the accolades, David says it is the people he will miss most.
“It’s the people I’ll miss the most. The banter, travelling with the boys, those connections. Everyone cares about the jersey and has a common goal.”
He also thanked supporters who backed him throughout his career.
“To the fans, the organisation, past and present players; thank you so much for standing with me and being a part of my journey, I’ll never forget it. I’ll always be a Crusader.”
David now turns his focus to finishing with Tasman, a side he debuted for in 2014 as a 19-year-old, before beginning his stint in Japan.
“I’m excited for a different pace and a new challenge. I feel like I’ve still got more to give.”
