Christchurch-born and raised, Tanner Stowers-Smith began his career at the New Zealand Warriors in 2023, captaining the club's SG Ball Cup side before quickly progressing to the NSW Cup reserve grade. That same year, he earned selection for the Kiwis A side that defeated Tonga A in a one-off invitational.

By 2024, the dependable forward had established himself as a mainstay in the NSW Cup squad before making his NRL debut the following year, going on to make 13 first-grade appearances across the season. He was also part of the 2025 NSW Cup-winning side that went on to claim the NRL State Championship title against the Burleigh Bears.

The Halswell Hornets junior cemented his place in the NRL side in 2026, featuring for majority of the season as an impactful interchange prop. His consistent performances have earned him a spot in the current Kiwis squad where he now has the opportunity to make his international debut in the World Cup. This would see the 22-year-old carry on a proud family legacy as the great-grandson of former Kiwis captain and great Pat Smith.