Monday 27 October 2025 

18-year-old St. George Illawarra Dragons middle Trinity Tauaneai is closing out a whirlwind season, joining the Kiwi Ferns after making her NRLW debut just 4 months ago.

Tauaneai is elevated from the wider squad following the two-game stand down of Brianna Clark for a grade 2 infringement in the team’s previous match against Fetu Samoa.

Kiwi Ferns head coach Ricky Henry said: “Trinity is a phenomenal young talent who’s already making waves in the NRLW. She’s incredibly mobile, skilful, and has a tough edge to her game. She’s an exciting prospect and definitely one to watch for the future.”

Tauaneai has been a standout throughout the age-grade competitions, representing the Wellington Orcas at the NZRL National Youth Tournament in 2022, where she was selected in the first NZRL Aotearoa Whaanui 16s representative team. In 2023, the Orcas 16s Girls team won the NZRL National District 9s, and Tauaneai was awarded Tournament MVP.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Kiwi Ferns,” said Tauaneai. “It’s always been my dream, but I had it more in my five-year plan. To be there in my first NRLW season is crazy, but I’m so keen to get stuck in and make the most of the experience.”

Stepping into the squad will be made smoother for Trinity with her older sister, Kiwi Ferns back rower Alexis Tauaneai, also part of the star-studded side. Having played in opposition NRLW clubs this year, they are looking forward to being back on the same team.

The Kiwi Ferns squad are now assembled in Auckland ahead of their clash with Australia’s Jillaroos at Eden Park this Sunday 2 November.