In 1971 Eade was part of the Auckland team that defeated Australia 15-14 at Carlaw Park.
In 1972 Eade won the Rothville Trophy as player of the year in the Auckland competition.
[citation needed] He was made vice captain of Auckland in 1973 and in 1974 was part of their side that defeated Wales 31-5 in 1975.
Eade was selected as part of the 1975 World Cup squad and continued to play for the Kiwis until 1978.
[4] In 1978 Eade was appointed the player-coach of Eastern United, a combined senior team from the Howick and Pakuranga clubs.