Throughout his football career, he played fullback, and it was in 1899 that he represented Taranaki against Wanganui and other provincial sides, making a name for himself as one of the finest custodians in the game.

When nearing the height of his career he left for the South African War, but on returning to the Dominion he again found his way to the Taranaki town, where he continued playing for his old club, the Star.

He was the greatest kick of the day, and could punt with uncanny accuracy with either right or left foot, while he was a deadly tackler and as cool as a cucumber.

Following the tour, Hardgrave was part of the Auckland side that defeated New South Wales 10–3 in a return match at Victoria Park.

Hardgrave continued to play for Otahuhu in 1915, 1916 and was linked with the club at the start of the 1917 season but he did not make any appearances for them and they folded after a 3 defeats on the field and a further default loss.