The squad strikes an impressive balance between experience and youth, combining seasoned campaigners with a new generation eager to make their mark in the famous black and gold hoops.
Leading the experienced contingent are former All Blacks Julian Savea and Matt Proctor, alongside Hurricanes centurion Du'Plessis Kirifi and veteran forward Murphy Taramai, providing a strong foundation for one of the competition's most exciting young squads.
Among the fresh faces are a host of players ready to embrace their first full NPC campaign, with the 15 new contracts highlighting Wellington Rugby's commitment to developing local talent and creating opportunities for the next generation. Recent All Blacks Sevens debutant Riley Williams is an exciting prospect for the Lions.
The squad also features several players who have already turned heads through Super Rugby and representative pathways, including Caleb Delaney, Hugo Plummer, Callum Harkin and Reo Matsushita, adding further excitement to a group packed with potential.
With experienced leaders guiding an ambitious crop of young talent, Wellington will be looking to build on its proud NPC tradition when the 2026 season gets underway.
The Wellington squad is:
Caleb Delaney, Johnny Falloon, Sione Halalilo, Alex Hewitt, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Siale Lauaki, SSekope Lopeti-Moli, James O’Reilly, Matolu Petaia, Hugo Plummer, Penieli Poasa, Puoeni Paviyawa, Dominic Ropeti, Murphy Taramai, Samuela Tawake, Sam Thomson, Jake Turnbull, Kenkichi Yanagawa, Cameron Burgess, Losi Filipo, Callum Harkin, Logan Henry, Reo Matsushita, Divad Palu, Piri Paraone, Matt Proctor, Jackson Ropata, Julian Savea, Jordan Soli, Stanley Solomon, Riley Williams