Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Luke Hanson will leave the New Zealand Warriors at the end of the 2026 NRL season after signing with the Gold Coast Titans from 2027. The 22-year-old playmaker will return to Australia following three seasons in Auckland, creating another vacancy in the Warriors' halves stocks and potentially opening the door for Jett Cleary to push for his NRL debut.
The Warriors confirmed Hanson will depart when his current contract expires after receiving an opportunity to continue his first grade career with the Titans.
Hanson secures fresh opportunity with Titans
Hanson joined the Warriors in 2024 after progressing through the Penrith Panthers junior system.
The young halfback impressed in both the Jersey Flegg Cup and NSW Cup before earning his long awaited NRL debut in Round 3 this season against the Newcastle Knights.
Despite his strong development, Hanson managed just one NRL appearance in 2026 as he sat behind Tanah Boyd, Te Maire Martin and Chanel Harris Tavita in the Warriors' playmaking depth chart.
Warriors general manager of recruitment, pathways and development Andrew McFadden thanked Hanson for his contribution to the club.
"We've enjoyed having Luke with us for the past three seasons and watching his growth from the U21 level to earn his first grade debut this year," McFadden said.
"He has an opportunity back in Australia and we wish him all the best for the future. We really appreciate his efforts and contribution to the club."
Warriors halves set for further change
Hanson's departure continues a period of transition for the Warriors' playmaking stocks.
Luke Metcalf is also set to leave the club at the end of the season after signing with the St George Illawarra Dragons for 2027.
The departures will provide the Warriors with greater flexibility as they reshape their roster ahead of next season.
The club will now look to develop its next generation of playmakers while maintaining depth in the halves.
Jett Cleary could benefit
One player who may benefit from the changes is Jett Cleary.
The 21 year old, who is the younger brother of Penrith Panthers star Nathan Cleary, has continued his development within the Warriors system and is viewed as one of the club's promising young halves.
With Hanson and Metcalf both leaving, Cleary could find a clearer pathway to first grade opportunities in the near future.
While no debut timeline has been confirmed, the changes to the Warriors roster improve his chances of breaking into the NRL squad as the club plans for the future.
Titans add young playmaking depth
For the Gold Coast Titans, Hanson represents another investment in youth as the club continues building its roster for 2027 and beyond.
Although his first grade opportunities have been limited so far, Hanson has shown consistent development through the Warriors' pathways and reserve grade programs.
The Titans will hope increased opportunities at NRL level allow the talented playmaker to establish himself as a regular first grade contributor.
