Alatini to Steinmetz: get it sorted, Paul

Future Hurricane and Wellington NPC player Pita Alatini is embarrassed that his move to Wellington has created strife for Paul Steinmetz.

The All Black second five-eighth says he hopes Steinmetz will sort out his problems.

Steinmetz has withdrawn from his Wellington Rugby Football Union contract and his playing career is on hold because of it.

He requested a transfer to Otago after hearing of Alatini's move, but Wellington is adamant he will be staying.

Talks between the two parties seem a long way from reaching any solution.

"To be honest, I just hope that Paul sorts it all out, especially for himself, because he's had such a good season, and it was a shame he had to pull out of the [Wellington v Otago] game," Alatini said.

"But I can really understand where he's coming from and I hope he gets the result he's after and gets back playing.

"To be honest, it has played on my mind a bit, even though I really haven't had anything to do with it."

Alatini is moving to Wellington to next month join wife Megan and 6-year-old daughter Tonica. Megan works for television production company Cloud 9 in Wellington.

Alatini said he was looking forward to the move after much time spent apart.

"We've been together nine years and probably apart for four and a half," he said. "We're looking forward to living together as a normal family."

- NZPA