Samuel Slade is a capable enforcer with the frame and physicality to mix it in with the tight five. He also has the versatility and skill to slot in on the side of the scrum as a flanker.

A proud old boy of Mt Albert Grammar, Slade was named to the 2016 New Zealand Secondary Schools and has transitioned from a young talented prospect to a mature leader for Moana Pasifika.

Slade made his provincial debut for Auckland in 2017 which saw him selected for the New Zealand Under 20s team. He played briefly for Manawatu and with Counties Manukau before switching to North Harbour.

In 2021, he was selected to play for Manu Samoa, playing two matches against the Māori All Blacks and two against Tonga. These were crucial for Samoa’s qualification for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Off the field Slade is a DJ and has performed at halftime during Moana Pasifika’s matches. It all began when he played a set at an end-of-season gig a few years ago on Auckland’s Ponsonby road at Chapel Bar.

He also has a passion for film and photography, with a VHS camera that he uses to document his life.

Moana Pasifika debut: 2022 v Crusaders

Nick Name: Blade, The Crane, The Mountain, Rodman

Junior Rugby Clubs: Ponsonby Ponies

Senior Rugby Clubs: Ponsonby Ponies / Pukekohe Premiers

Try Celebration Song: Juicy – Notorious BIG