In 2006 Ranger was selected by Gordon Tietjens to represent the New Zealand Sevens team at the Dubai and South Africa tournaments in December.

In June 2010, Ranger was called into the All Blacks training squad alongside Ben Smith as injury cover.

[9] All Blacks Coach Steve Hansen stated that in spite of this he would have selected Rene Ranger for the Rugby Championship.

[13] Although he didn't score he played very well, and set up one of Hosea Gear's tries – the final result was Barbarians 39, England 29.

His return to New Zealand rugby was hampered by slow recovery from neck surgery, which precluded his participation in the North Harbour ITM Cup campaign.

Upon signing, Ranger commented that "chucking on the red jersey was a bit intimidating at times" in reference to his long association with the Blues.

[22] In Round 5 of the 2021 Bunnings NPC Ranger played his 100th game for Northland against Waikato in Whangārei in 38–28 win for the Taniwha.

The New Zealand Rugby Union suspended him for one match, and he was officially warned and directed to complete an alcohol counselling programme.