Awhina Tangen-Wainohu forced to retire after Pacific Four Series injury

Black Ferns loosehead prop and experienced Super Rugby Aupiki forward Awhina Tangen-Wainohu has been forced to medically retire, following a serious neck injury in the Pacific Four Series recently.

Tangen-Wainohu was sent home following the Black Ferns’ first game under new coach Whitney Hansen against the USA in Sacramento, missing the final two games of the three-round 2026 competition.

The prop sustained the career-ending neck injury during training ahead of the first game, where she was named in the No.17 jersey.

The 10-Test Black Ferns represented both the Chiefs Manawa and the Blues in the Super Rugby Pacific Aupiki competition, while being part of New Zealand’s Women’s World Cup-winning side in 2022.

Announcing her retirement on social media, Tangen-Wainohu thanked all of her teammates from over the years.

“Sometimes the game you love doesn’t love you back. My neck scans have shown that staying in the game could cost more than the game gives. So I have to hang the boots up, but I am grateful my tinana is still in one piece,” she said.

“Nga mihi rugby, for a life I never imagined, for everything you gave to my whanau and I. To every team, coach, kaiako, and teammate, you shaped this journey. Forever grateful.”

Hansen, who was victorious in all three of her first fixtures, said that the prop’s resilience has been admirable.

“Awhina is a talented front-rower who has consistently shown what’s possible through resilience and determination. She’s been instrumental in helping us shape this new era of Black Ferns,” Hansen said.

“She has approached an incredibly tough decision with mana and optimism; we thank her for everything she has given to this team. Awhina will always be part of this group, and we know she will continue to contribute to the legacy of our people. For that, we are grateful.”

Newly appointed NZR CEO Steve Lancaster said the organisation are grateful for Awhina’s contribution to the game in New Zealand.

“Awhina has overcome many challenges in her rugby journey, and it’s been inspiring to witness her return to the Black Ferns over the past year.

“On behalf of NZR, I’d like to thank Awhina for her outstanding contribution to women’s rugby, both on the field and through her mentorship off it. We recognise this hasn’t been an easy decision, and we wish her all the best for the future.”