But it appears NZR has come to the rescue. After negotiating with Newcastle, it’s been agreed Fineanganofo can remain in New Zealand until next year’s World Cup before moving north from the end of 2027 to 2029.
As part of the deal, Fineanganofo will suit up for the Hurricanes next season.
“I’m excited to be staying in New Zealand with the Hurricanes next season,” Fineanganofo said.
“I am proud of what we achieved last season and I’m looking forward to helping defend the Super Rugby title while putting my hand up for the All Blacks ahead of the World Cup.
Fineanganofo made his test debut in a 34-32 win over France in Christchurch off the bench but missed the following tests against Italy and Ireland with a shoulder injury. He also featured in two tour matches in South Africa.
There is a chance Fineanganofo is named in Rennie’s 34-man squad for the upcoming two-test Bledisloe Cup series against Australia.
Rennie will name his squad at 2.30pm and all eyes will be on whether former captain Scott Barrett is named in the side, with his brother Beauden Barrett, who appears to have fallen out of favour with selectors.
Fineanganofo will suit up for Bay of Plenty this weekend in their final regular-season match against North Harbour after being one of 14 All Blacks released to play.
Newcastle opened their season on the weekend, which resulted in a 59-26 defeat to the defending champions Northampton Saints.
More to come
Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.