Heremaia to leave Hull for Widnes

Kiwi hooker Aaron Heremaia will leave Hull at the end of the season to join Widnes.

Heremaia, 31, previously signed for Widnes for the 2008 season, but the deal fell through after the Vikings entered administration at the end of 2007.

He will now join up with Denis Betts’ side on a two-year deal in October, after the Airlie Birds didn’t offer him a deal for 2015.

Heremaia said: “Denis (Betts) told me about the Club and where they’re heading. I’ve been hearing so many good things about the environment on and off the field, it just makes it an easy decision for me to relocate here with my family and be part of building something special. 

“You can see, by what they are doing on the field now, that everyone enjoys being there and I’m really excited to be a part of it from October.

“I consider myself to be a bit of a late bloomer and I’ve put a lot of hard work in to get here to Widnes. I’ve represented my country and have played in an NRL Grand Final, the next chapter is to bring success to Widnes Vikings and I’ll be giving it my all.”

Heremaia first came to the UK with Leigh in 2006, and also had a brief spell at Halifax.

He then opted to return home, and managed to earn a contract in the NRL with New Zealand Warriors in 2009, making 60 appearances for them before signing for Hull ahead of the 2012 season.

Coach Betts added: “This signing just shows again that we are in the market for high quality players. Aaron has been outstanding for Hull FC over the last few years; he’s got international pedigree and has great character. Anyone you speak to about Aaron speaks very highly about him. He’ll be great for the Club and in the community and he ticks every box for us.

“I’m also excited about how much he can help and improve Lloyd White and Liam Carberry, the competition for places in that hooking role will be huge next year and that’s what I want.”