Saveatama Eroni Clarke is a former All Black, Pasifika leader and much‑loved figure in New Zealand rugby, renowned for his powerful running game, humble character and commitment to family and community. The 919th All Black, he played 10 Tests for New Zealand between 1992 and 1998, leaving a lasting impression on the national game.
Eroni’s provincial career began at just 22 when he first pulled on the Auckland jersey. Making an immediate impact on the wing, he scored two spectacular tries in only his second match in an early‑season clash against Queensland. That breakout year saw him selected for a New Zealand XV and earn an All Blacks trial, and in 1992 he realised a childhood dream when he was named an All Black, playing four Tests and scoring five tries in his debut season.
Throughout the 1990s, Eroni was a mainstay of top‑level rugby in Aotearoa. He was a member of the dominant Blues side that won the first two Super 12 titles in 1996 and 1997, going on to play more than 50 Super Rugby games. For Auckland in the NPC he passed the 150‑game milestone, captained the side, and crossed for over 100 tries – a reflection of his consistency, work ethic and eye for the try‑line. In 1998 he was recalled to the All Blacks for a further two Tests, rounding out a 10‑Test international career. He later spent two seasons playing professionally in Japan and returned home to represent Counties Manukau in the NPC.
Well known for his rugby prowess and recognised for his leadership on and off the field, Eroni transitioned smoothly into the business and training world after his playing days. He has held roles in corporate training and coaching, drawing on lived experience of high performance, teamwork and resilience at the elite level to support people and organisations navigating pressure, change and growth.
In 2020, Eroni was appointed New Zealand Rugby’s first Pasifika Engagement Manager, a pioneering role that sees him work closely with Pasifika players, families, communities and leaders. He plays a key part in ensuring Pasifika perspectives are heard at the decision‑making table, strengthening cultural understanding within the game, and supporting the wellbeing, identity and long‑term success of Pacific athletes within rugby’s high‑performance system.
Family sits at the heart of Eroni’s story. He is married to Siala and together they have five children – Shekynah, EJ, Caleb, Jireh and Zion – with his second son Caleb Clarke following in his footsteps as a current All Black. Their whānau journey, and the intergenerational impact of rugby, is a powerful thread in the way Eroni talks about leadership, values, legacy and community.
An accomplished communicator, Eroni brings warmth, humour and authenticity to every room. He shares rich stories from professional rugby – from Test matches in the black jersey to Super 12 titles and life in Japan – to explore themes of leadership, teamwork, peak performance, Pasifika culture, resilience and what it means to perform under pressure while staying grounded in who you are.
