The New Zealand Rugby Judicial Committee (the Committee) has banned a domestic rugby player for four years for the possession and attempted use of anabolic steroids.  

In early December 2025, NZ Customs intercepted a parcel addressed to Hoani Tutakangahau containing testosterone enanthate and oxandrolone. Both substances are classified as anabolic agents and banned at all times under the 2025 Prohibited list. 

Mr Tutakangahau was a player registered to New Zealand Rugby at the time the parcel was intercepted, and so was subject to the Sports Anti-Doping Rules (the Rules). As he did not engage with proceedings, the Committee deemed him to have admitted possession and attempted use of prohibited substances.  

Under the Rules, possession includes the purchase of a prohibited substance by any means (such as electronically or in-person), whether or not the substance has been received. Attempted use is considered to happen when an athlete takes steps to use a substance, regardless of whether the attempted use successfully happens.  

Mr Tutakangahau was provisionally suspended on 9 April 2026, which his four-year ban has been backdated to.  

Sport Integrity Commission Te Kahu Raunui Chief Executive Rebecca Rolls emphasised the importance of anti-doping rules to keep sport safe and fair.  

“There is no place for anabolic steroid use in sport. They undermine fair competition and can pose significant health risks. The Sports Anti-Doping Rules exist to keep everyone safe and sport fair, regardless of the level of competition.”