Kiwi Ferns name Co-Captains to lead Pacific Championships Squad

Joseph Tapine (Kiwi #800) and Mele Hufanga (Kiwi Fern #166) have been named the 2025 NZRL Players of the Year for the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns. Ryan Charles (Wheel Kiwi #1) received the Wheel Kiwis Player of the Year award, while rising star Casey McLean (Kiwi #841) and debutant Ivana Lauitiiti (Kiwi Fern #188) were recognised as Rookies of the Year.  

Joseph Tapine is awarded the Steve Watene Memorial Medal after a stellar season as a key member of the leadership team that guided the Kiwis to their 2025 Pacific Cup title, while also captaining the Canberra Raiders. Mele Hufanga played a vital role in the Broncos’ Premiership-winning season and the Kiwi Ferns’ Pacific Championships campaign, earning her the Player of the Year honour.  

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New Zealand Kiwis Player of the Year: Joseph Tapine

It was a standout season for Tapine in the NRL. Taking over as Captain at Canberra, he led the team to its first Minor Premiership since 1990. He played 23 of 27 games and claimed a fourth straight Meninga Medal as Raiders’ Player of the Year, making club history. Tapine was also voted into the Rugby League Players' Association (RLPA) Players' Dream Team by his peers. On the international stage, he impressed across all three Championship matches, averaging 140 running metres per game. He made 34 tackles against Toa Samoa, 23 against Tonga, and ran for 174 metres in the final, earning an International Rugby League Golden Boot nomination.   

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New Zealand Kiwi Ferns Player of the Year: Mele Hufanga

Hufanga was once again a cornerstone for the Broncos in 2025, scoring eight tries, producing three try assists, and registering 15 line breaks across the season. Her campaign was highlighted by a stunning game-winning try in the Grand Final against the Roosters. Returning for her fourth international season with the Kiwi Ferns, she maintained her try-scoring form with another game-winner against Fetu Samoa off the back of a 90-metre line break. Across the final two Tests against the Jillaroos, Hufanga ran for 217 metres and added two tackle breaks, one line break, and one line break assist, reinforcing her reputation as a consistent game-breaker. 

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New Zealand Kiwis Rookie of the Year: Casey McLean  

The 19-year-old Casey McLean played one game for the Kiwis in the 2024 Pacific Championships, a memorable debut where he scored four tries against Papua New Guinea, in what would be the first glimpse of his talents on the international stage. He enjoyed a breakout 2025 season with Penrith playing 23 matches, finishing with 16 tries and 11 try assists. McLean was a standout in his second campaign for the Kiwis, scoring twice and making three line breaks in Round 1 against Toa Samoa, adding a try and three line breaks against Tonga, and crossing again in the Grand Final against Toa Samoa. The Rookie of the Year has now scored in every Test he has played in, totalling eight tries from four appearances, marking him as an exciting long-term prospect for both the Panthers and the Kiwis. 

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New Zealand Kiwi Ferns Rookie of the Year: Ivana Lauitiiti

One of Aotearoa’s most promising young prospects in recent years, Ivana Lauitiiti enjoyed an unforgettable 2025 rookie season, making both her NRLW and international debuts. Her strong performances earned her a regular bench role for the Warriors, finishing with six appearances, two tries, 36 tackle breaks, 105 average running metres, and 71 tackles. A bone-rattling hit in Round 11 earned her the NRLW Dally M Tackle of the Year, and she was named Warriors Rookie of the Year. Her stellar club form secured selection in the Kiwi Ferns squad, appearing in all three Tests as an interchange prop. She made her international debut in the Round 1 comeback win over Fetu Samoa. Across her maiden campaign as the youngest in the squad, Ivana ran for 131 metres, making 32 tackles, and delivering six offloads, a solid start to the Rookie of the Year’s international career. 

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New Zealand Wheel Kiwis Player of the Year: Ryan Charles

Ryan Charles was named Wheel Kiwis Player of the Year after exemplifying excellence both on and off the court. A respected leader for the Wheel Kiwis, he guided his teammates with professionalism, humility, and a strong sense of whanaungatanga. At the inaugural NRL Wheelchair National Championships, he was a standout performer, converting almost every kick and adding several tries. His performances combined accurate kicking, creative playmaking, and strong game awareness. Off the court, Ryan serves as a mentor and role model, promoting wellbeing, hauora, and positive team culture through his holistic approach to leadership. His commitment, leadership, and passion for wheelchair rugby league make him a truly deserving recipient of this award.

Shortlist: Jayson Hooker, Mitch Stone.

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‍2025 New Zealand Rugby League high performance award winners

New Zealand Kiwis Player of the Year: Joseph Tapine

New Zealand Kiwi Ferns Player of the Year: Mele Hufanga

New Zealand Wheel Kiwis Player of the Year: Ryan Charles

New Zealand Kiwis Rookie of the Year: Casey McLean  

New Zealand Kiwi Ferns Rookie of the Year: Ivana Lauitiiti

2025 marked another outstanding year for domestic rugby league in Aotearoa as participation continued to grow, alongside increased support from volunteers, coaches, and our wider rugby league community. The talent, commitment, and effort shown across the game made selecting the 2025 NZRL award winners challenging. We congratulate the award winners as well as the shortlisted nominees.  

NZRL CEO Greg Peters shares, “As we reflect on the outstanding achievements and contributions across rugby league in 2025, highlighted by our award recipients, we also acknowledge and thank everyone who plays a part in strengthening our game.

"The dedication shown at every level continues to drive rugby league forward in a positive and inspiring way, it is a proud time for our game.”

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Grassroots Club of the Year: Rātana Pā Sports Club, Manawatu  

Rātana Pā Sports Club has shown continued dedication to growing rugby league in its small community, located between Palmerston North and Whanganui. Historically been a rugby union dominant community, in 2024 the sports club established the area’s first men’s and women’s teams in the Manawatū Rugby League senior competition. Building on this momentum, in 2025 the club established a junior programme, entering six teams into the Manawatū junior competitions, with 100 tamariki, teina, and rangatahi getting involved. Now, juniors and seniors from the Pā have been provided the opportunity to play rugby league, and the Manawatū District competitions have grown through the addition of the Sports Club’s teams.

Shortlist: Greymouth Greyhounds, West Coast; Maraenui Rugby League Club, Hawke’s Bay; Mt. Albert Lions, Auckland; Ōtāhuhu Leopards, Counties Manukau; Papamoa Bulldogs, Coastline; Randwick Kingfishers, Wellington; Riccarton Knights, Canterbury; Tautoro Titans, Te Tai Tokerau Rugby League; Whangamatā Whai, Hauraki.

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Female Domestic Player of the Year: Onjeurlina Hunt, Ōtāhuhu Leopards and Counties Manukau  

Returning to rugby league in 2025 after having her first child, Onjeurlina Hunt (née Leiataua) was back to her renowned form as she captained the Ōtāhuhu Leopards Women, and the Counties Manukau Women in the Sky Sport National Women's Premiership. She led Ōtāhuhu to the Steele-Shanks Premiership semi-finals, before guiding the Counties women through an undefeated campaign to claim the National title. Leading from the middle of the field, nearly every run produced tackle breaks and a line break, often producing a try of her own or putting her team on the front foot. Her leadership was also evident as she drew on her years of experience to encourage and help younger and less experienced teammates. Onjeurlina’s 2025 season was a standout comeback marked by strong leadership and second to none performance.

Shortlist: Elizabeth Shelford Edwards, Moerewa Tigers and Northland; Malena Lavea, Richmond Rovers and Akarana; Mele Wihongi-Hemaloto, Richmond Rovers, Northland and Akarana; Te Raukura Leafe, Randwick Kingfishers and Wellington; Terongomaianiwaniwa Williams, Eastern Eagles and Canterbury.

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Male Domestic Player of the Year: Jamel Hunt, Ōtāhuhu Leopards and Counties Manukau

Jamel Hunt enjoyed an outstanding 2025 season, captaining both the Ōtāhuhu Leopards Premier Men and Counties Manukau Men to championship titles. He was instrumental in the Leopards collecting all major ARL trophies including the prestigious Fox Memorial Shield, the Roope Rooster, Kiwi Shield, and the Rukutai Shield. He carried this success into the Counties side, leading the team in their unbeaten season, which saw them take out the National Premiership. A powerful and skilful enforcer in the middle, Jamel’s leadership was equally influential as he consistently led by example on and off the field. Working closely with team staff at both Ōtāhuhu and Counties, he helped foster a positive, high-performance team culture, playing a key role in his teams’ title-winning success. Jamel’s consistent excellence, leadership, and championship success at both club and representative level rightfully earned him the Player of the Year award.

Shortlist: Dylan Tavita, Ōtāhuhu Leopards and Counties Manukau; Poutawera Ratana, West Coast Raiders and Te Tai Tokerau; Sebastine Ikahihifo, Ōtāhuhu Leopards and Counties Manukau.

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Domestic Coach of the Year: Tusa Lafaele, Ōtāhuhu Leopards and Counties Manukau

At the helm of the successful Ōtāhuhu Leopards Premier Men and the Counties Manukau Men was Tusa Lafaele, whose 2025 coaching season was nothing short of remarkable. Under his leadership, Ōtāhuhu dominated the Auckland Rugby League Fox Memorial Premiership, winning all 17 matches to secure the prestigious Fox Memorial Shield, along with the Roope Rooster, Kiwi Shield, and Rukutai Shield. Building on this success, Tusa applied his proven coaching approach to the Counties Men’s team in the National Premiership. In similar fashion, Counties clean-swept the Premiership to win all matches and secure the National title for the first time in 10 years, cementing Tusa as the 2025 Domestic Coach of the Year.

Shortlist: Andrew Auimatagi, Linwood Keas and Canterbury; Bryce Wilson, Northland; Charlie Tikotikoca, Marlborough and Te Tauihu; Jaedyn Eagle, Tamatea Arikinui and Hawke’s Bay; Krystal Rota, Papakura Sea Eagles and Counties Manukau; Pila Hingano, Pakuranga Jaguars and Counties Manukau; Sese Henry, Ōtāhuhu Leopards and Counties Manukau.

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Female Junior Player of the Year: Ivana Lauitiiti, Ōtāhuhu Leopards

After signing a development contract with the New Zealand Warriors NRLW team at the end of 2024, Ivana Lauitiiti began her 2025 season with her local junior club, the Ōtāhuhu Leopards, in their women's side. Her dedication to training and strong work ethic earned her an NRLW debut in Round 5, before securing a regular bench role for the remainder of the season. She finished the year with six appearances, earning both the Warriors Rookie of the Year award plus NRLW Dally M Tackle of the Year. Her impressive club campaign propelled her into the Kiwi Ferns’ 2025 Pacific Championships squad. The youngest member of the squad, Ivana made her international debut in Round 1 against Fetu Samoa and went on to play all three Tests. Ivana's on-field achievements were further highlighted by her off-field service, including her support of grassroots rugby league and volunteering in community initiatives.

Shortlist: Luisa Kuli, Richmond Rovers and Akarana; Mary-Jane Taito, Mangere East Hawks and Counties Manukau; Suraya Kingi, Manurewa Marlins, Northland, and Counties Manukau.

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Male Junior Player of the Year: Rico Lemalie, Linwood Keas and Canterbury  

Rico Lemalie was a consistent performer for the New Zealand Warriors under-19 S.G. Ball Cup team throughout their 2025 season, before returning to Christchurch for the club season. Unable to take the field due to injury, he instead stepped up as a trainer for his Linwood 18s side, supporting the team through to finals. Rico recovered in time to join the Canterbury Bulls 18s for the National Youth Tournament, where he demonstrated strong leadership by mentoring and supporting teammates, particularly those new to the representative environment. Appointed co-captain, Rico’s leadership, game understanding, and skill set were key to Canterbury winning the National Youth Tournament, marking their first championship in the current tournament format and first 18s title since 1998. In addition to his on-field merits, Rico also volunteered as a trainer for the Linwood 14s boys and coached a Canterbury Samoa team in the Pasifika Elite Pathways Cup.

Shortlist: Api Patuawa, Te Paamu Tigers and Coastline; Calvin Tavita-Harris, Ōtāhuhu Leopards and Counties Manukau; Gordon Afoa, St. Paul’s College and Auckland; Jeremiah Lemana, Kelston Boys’ High School and Auckland; Kairus Booth, Otago and South Island; Kayce Perese–Sukroo, Ellerslie Eagles and Akarana; Ronan Byford, Mt. Albert Lions and Akarana; Satali Asolelei-Fretton, Kelston Boy’s High School and Akarana.

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Match Official of the Year: Paki Parkinson, Auckland  

In 2025, Paki Parkinson continued to set the benchmark for refereeing and officiating in Aotearoa, contributing across all levels from grassroots to high performance and international rugby league. Representing the Auckland Referees Association, Paki’s most notable grassroots appointments included the Fox Memorial Grand Final, NZ Māori vs Auckland Invitational match, NZ Secondary Schools Tournament Boys’ Premiership Final, and the National Men’s Premiership Final. He also officiated in junior representative competitions including the New South Wales Cup, Jersey Flegg Cup, and S.G. Ball Cup. On the NRL stage, he had several appointments as a touch judge, and was the primary on-field referee for two NRLW matches. In two Test matches during the recent Pacific Championships Paki featured as a touch judge. Off the pitch, Paki spent time mentoring Bay of Plenty and Coastline referees, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise. Paki's performances throughout the year demonstrated the high standards and excellence he continues to strive for.

Shortlist: Jack Feavers, Canterbury; Jenny Pope, West Coast and South Island; La Winitana, Wellington; Rachael Beazley, Northland.

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Pirtek Volunteer of the Year: Nathan Te Miha, Te Atatū Roosters

Nathan (Nate) Te Miha coached the Te Atatū Roosters 16s boys, but his impact extended beyond the field and his role as a coach. He supported players however possible, including transporting them to training, ensuring they had kai, and checking in on their wellbeing. To his players, Nate was a mentor, role model, and friend. Alongside his coaching staff, he built a strong team culture and kaupapa where all boys felt valued, even when missing out on selection to play. Nate’s commitment also extended beyond Te Atatū. He established and coached an additional Hokianga Storm Māori development team so more boys had the opportunity to play, growing the Storm’s 17s programme to three teams. He also supported a Northland 9s team by transporting players to Whangārei each weekend, ensuring these boys could pursue another representative pathway. The impact Nate, alongside his wife Kathleen, has had on many rangatahi and teams across the rugby league community is immense, and this recognition reflects his outstanding contribution to the game.

Shortlist: Darren Pullen, Pātea Warriors; Peter McInally, Howick Hornets; Shannan Foreman, Waitemata Seagulls.

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2025 New Zealand Rugby League domestic award winners:

Grassroots Club of the Year: Rātana Pā Sports Club

Female Domestic Player of the Year: Onjeurlina Hunt

Male Domestic Player of the Year: Jamel Hunt

Domestic Coach of the Year: Tusa Lafaele

Female Junior Player of the Year: Ivana Lauitiiti

Male Junior Player of the Year: Rico Lemalie

Match Official of the Year: Paki Parkinson

Pirtek Volunteer of the Year: Nathan Te Miha

21 February 2025

2024 was another standout year for rugby league in Aotearoa. With increased player numbers and more volunteers, coaches, and people engaged throughout the game, it was a year to be proud of. Given the hard work and dedication shown by all, it has been another tough year in which to select the NZRL award winners for 2024. Our congratulations go out to those who have taken out the top honors.

NZRL CEO Greg Peters says, “It’s a proud moment when we’re able to reflect on all the outstanding achievements and contributions to rugby league throughout 2024. It’s evident that everyone’s dedication is helping our great game move forward in such a positive direction, and while we congratulate our award winners, we also thank everyone involved.”

Grassroots Club of the Year – Petone Panthers Rugby League Club

The Club of the Year award is given to a club that has showcased NZRL values and contributed to their local community. In 2024, the Petone Panthers created an inclusive environment by re-engaging past players and supporters into coaching and administration. They shifted their culture toward a whānau-based environment with a strong tikanga Māori kaupapa, even participating in local beach clean-ups.

Domestic Female Player of the Year – Kaiyah Atai (Richmond Roses / Akarana Falcons)

Kaiyah Atai had a standout year, winning the National Women's Premiership with the Akarana Falcons and representing the Cook Islands in the Pacific Championships. Her performance earned her a contract with the NRLW One New Zealand Warriors squad.

Domestic Male Player of the Year – Fine Vakautakakala (Te Atatū Roosters / Auckland Vulcans)

Fine Vakautakakala was a key leader in Te Atatū’s successful season and helped the Auckland Vulcans secure the National Men’s Premiership title in golden point. He was also awarded Auckland Player of the Year and Prop of the Year.

Domestic Coach of the Year – Charlotte Scanlan (Akarana Falcons)

After a successful playing career, Scanlan guided the Akarana Falcons women’s team to an undefeated run and a victory in the National Women's Premiership. She was also selected for High Performance Sport New Zealand’s Te Hāpaitanga initiative.

Female Junior Player of the Year – Marewakiterangi Samson (Papakura Sea Eagles / Counties Manukau Stingrays)

Samson co-captioned the NZRL Ahi Kā Aotearoa Girls team in the National Championships in Queensland. She also reached the final of the National Women's Premiership with Counties Manukau and won the ARL Steele Shanks Premiership with Papakura.

Male Junior Player of the Year – Bishop Neal (St Thomas of Canterbury College / Canterbury Bulls)

A One New Zealand Warriors academy player, Neal led St Thomas of Canterbury College to back-to-back titles and was named the Boys Premiership tournament MVP.

Match Official of the Year – Jack Feavers (Canterbury)

Feavers officiated across multiple grades, including the CRL Men’s Club Premiership final and the NSWRL Harold Matthews and SG Ball Cups. He is also recognized for his dedication to mentoring the next generation of referees.

Pirtek Volunteer of the Year – Cameron Tukapua (Eastern Eagle Rugby League Club)

As Club President and coach, Tukapua has been instrumental in fostering young talent and engaging whānau. Pirtek CEO Chris Bourke described him as a "selfless volunteer and a true leader."

2024 NZRL Domestic Award Winners Summary

• Grassroots Club of the Year: Petone Panthers Rugby League Club
• Domestic Female Player of the Year: Kaiyah Atai
• Domestic Male Player of the Year: Fine Vakautakakala
• Domestic Coach of the Year: Charlotte Scanlan
• Female Junior Player of the Year: Marewakiterangi Samson
• Male Junior Player of the Year: Bishop Neal
• Match Official of the Year: Jack Feavers
• Pirtek Volunteer of the Year: Cameron Tukapua

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It is with great sadness that we acknowledge and mourn the passing of Jeremy Hendrix-Harris, Whutupōro Rīki Whaikaha o Aotearoa Physical Disability Rugby League (PDRLNZ) Kiwi #14.

Jeremy was a cherished member of the PDRLNZ community for many years and proudly represented Aotearoa on multiple occasions. His international appearances included the 2018 Rugby League Emerging Nations World Championships in Sydney and the 2021 PDRL World Cup in England, the inaugural competition in which the PDRLNZ Kiwis achieved a historic silver-medal finish.

Jeremy also took the field in the 2023 Pacific Championships Grand Final curtain-raiser at FMG Waikato, representing the PDRL Kiwis in the match against the PDRL Kiwis A side.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Jeremy’s whānau, friends, the PDRLNZ and wider PDRL community, and all who knew and loved him. He will be greatly missed, moe mai rā Jeremy.

We very sadly mourn the passing of William "Bill" McEntee. Bill was well known and widely respected within the rugby league community, having served at every level of the game from grassroots through to national leadership.

Bill's relationship with rugby league began in 1963 playing for his beloved Papakura Sea Eagles, where he went on to become a Life Member and served as the club's Chairman and President for many years.

Over the years, Bill wore many hats in service of our game and its people across Aotearoa, including Coach, Committee Member, Chairperson, and NZRL Board Member. He was the first-ever Counties Manukau Stingrays Life Member as well as the current Counties Manukau Rugby League President, and a New Zealand Rugby League Life Member since 2023.

Bill's impact extended beyond rugby league, serving his local community as the Chairman of the Papakura Local Board. We offer our deepest sympathies and condolences to the McEntee family, the Papakura Sea Eagles, and all who knew and loved Bill.

Rugby league stalwarts Gary Whittle from East Auckland and Rotorua's Jenny Nahu have been appointed members of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for outstanding services to rugby league, in the New Year 2026 Honours List.

Gary Whittle has been involved with rugby league for more than 65 years, in roles spanning referee, touch judge, ground announcer, timekeeper and administrator in Northland, Waikato and Auckland. Gary was appointed as the timekeeper for Warriors games in New Zealand in 1995, initially beginning as a volunteer, and has since been timekeeper for more than 500 games.

He has volunteered in a range of other roles to ensure many rugby league events could be staged, and to help maintain rugby league’s high standards and reputation. He has been a member of the Auckland Rugby League Judicial Committee since 1981 and is serving his second term as Chair. He has served on a range of committees for the Auckland Rugby League Referees Association, including the annual Gold Medal Awards for more than 10 years. He was the ground announcer at Carlaw Park for Auckland Rugby League for 15 years.

He has been a Director of the Rugby League Museum Society since 2009. He chaired Auckland Police Rugby League from 1985 to 1992. Gary is a Life Member of the Auckland Rugby League Referees Association and of Auckland Rugby League since 2008, and was recognised with a Distinguished Service Award from New Zealand Rugby League in 2000.

Jenny Nahu has influenced the culture and sustainability of rugby league in Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty region. She has held executive roles with the Ngongotaha Rugby League Club for 55 years and Bay of Plenty District Rugby League for 40 years. She helped persuade the Rotorua District Council to develop six fields of new rugby league grounds on the east side of Rotorua City.

She secured the first-ever club base in the Rotorua community for rugby league some 10 years later, a facility that is also used by several other community organisations. She led the transformation of Puketāwhero Park into the central hub for rugby league in Rotorua, including project management and building development. She was involved with the relocation of the Carlaw Park administration building, gifted by Auckland Rugby League and then transported to Puketāwhero Park in Rotorua.

She continues to serve as the park’s Property Manager. She has established rugby league as a vehicle for mentorship, youth engagement and community pride, nurturing generations of young people on and off the field, particularly Māori and Pacific youth. Jenny is a Life Member of both the Ngongotaha and Bay of Plenty Rugby League Clubs.

We congratulate both Jenny and Gary on their well-deserved appointments to the New Zealand Order of Merit, and also thank them for their lifetimes of remarkable service to our game of rugby league.

As seen on dpmc.govt.nz

Position available: New Zealand Rugby League National Coach Development Manager

Rugby league has played a significant part in New Zealand sport for over 100 years. Formed in 1910, New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) is the governing body for the sport of rugby league in New Zealand.

NZRL is divided into seven zones that service the grassroots needs of the game. These zones compete in the National Premiership/Championship, as well as women’s, youth and schools’ competitions. NZRLmanages the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns, who play regular international fixtures and compete in the Rugby League World Cup every four years.

Through our “More Than A Game” philosophy, NZRL aspires to transform lives and community wellbeing through Rugby League. 

Underpinning this philosophy is The Kiwi Way.  We are diverse, we call New Zealand home and therefore we are all Kiwis. We live and play The Kiwi Way – all day/every day:

• We are inclusive, respectful and humble
• We are responsible
• We are innovative and courageous
• We are family first

OUR GOALS

• Rugby league enjoyed by more people
• A financially sustainable NZ Game
• Women’s game thriving and enhanced opportunities for women in the game
• Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns inspirational & aspirational
• NZRL to be a model modern sports organisation

PURPOSE

The National Coach Development Manager is responsible for the overall implementation of the NZRL coaching plan and working with coaching and development staff within Zones/Districts to deliver the plan.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Delivery of NZRL Coaching Strategy

·  Research to identify best practice coaching models.

·  Review, refine and implement NZRL’s coaching strategy in conjunction with relevant NZRL and Zone/District personnel.

·  Monitor the achievement of NZRL coaching objectives and outcomes identified in the NZRL Coach Development and High Performance plans.

·  Assist Zones/Districts with performance management of their coaching and development staff in line with national and Zonal/District objectives.

·  Manage the training and development of the coach educator network nationally.

2. Implement NZRL Coach Accreditation Scheme

• Responsible for the overall development and implementation of the NZRL coach development programmes in line with the NZRL Football Calendar

• Continually review and evaluate existing programmes and conduct research and benchmarking to identify best practice in coaching and game development.

• Implement sustainable best practice processes to increase overall quality of rugby league coaching.

• Liaise with relevant NZRL personnel to ensure all coaching programmes are fully integrated with High Performance, Football, Commercial and Brand strategies.

• Continuously work with appropriate Zone/District personnel to inform and maintain national alignment and consistency across all NZRL High Performance, Football, and coaching programmes.

• Continuous and in-depth communication across all Zones and districts to maintain a clear overview of our coaching and development programmes and to remain ‘in touch’ with our communities.

• Assist NZRL Executive and Board with other tasks/projects as and when reasonably required, in consultation with the GM of Football & High Performance.

3. Resource Development

·   Develop literature/resources to support NZRL coach accreditation programmes.

·   Develop, in consultation with the GM of Football & High Performance, a Core Competency, technical, tactical, and mental skills matrix.

·  Develop and produce literature/resources to enhance and support coaching recruitment and retention programmes.

·  Disseminate information relevant to education and assessment processes in a timely and accurate manner.

·  Utilise the NZRL website to improve accessibility of resources and to enhance education and assessment programmes where appropriate.

4. Planning and Reporting

Weekly work in progress meetings with relevant NZRL staff as per NZRL’s management. The NZRL Football & High-Performance department is connected to and works with all areas of the organisation and the wider rugby league community; therefore, a motivated team player who can also work independently is required.

PLANNING AND REPORTING

• Meeting NZRL KPIs for coach development tasks.
• Delivering on tasks as directed and requested by the NZRL General Manager of Football & High Performance.
• Working with other departments and teams to ensure communication, alignment and the delivery of coaching courses and upskilling opportunities, competitions and tournaments.

GENERAL DUTIES &RESPONSIBILITIES

• Be punctual and work the hours and times specified.
• Prioritise workload to ensure work of the greatest importance to the business is undertaken with urgency and to a high standard.
• Support and help develop a positive workplace culture.
• Demonstrate excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Responsibly manage all business resources within accountability levels.
• Undertake all duties and responsibilities outlined in this Job Description and all other duties as required by the business.
• Comply with all employment obligations.
• Promptly undertake to complete all reasonable and lawful instructions and directions given.
• Serve the business in good faith, promoting and protecting the business' best interests.
• During work time, and such other times as may be reasonably required, dedicate all effort to the execution and fulfilment of the duties, responsibilities, obligations and instructions related to employment.
• Demonstrate through own actions a commitment to Health and Safety at work when undertaking work or observing others in the workplace.

SKILLS, EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION 

• Demonstrated experience in leading coach development in a national sporting organisation.
• Sound MS Office and database management skills.
• Excellent organisational and planning skills; and
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

HOW TO APPLY

This role can be based at the New Zealand Rugby League Head Office in Penrose, Auckland, or outside Auckland.

To apply for this role, please send in a covering letter accompanied with your CV to: football.operations@nzrl.co.nz

 Applications will close on Sunday 18^th January 2026.

The Kiwis have powered into the shortlist for Team of the Year for the 2025 Halberg Awards, New Zealand’s premier honours recognising the top sporting achievements of the year.

The Kiwis’ remarkable 2025 campaign saw them produce a 100% win record, secure both the Sir Peter Leitch Challenge Cup, contested between New Zealand and Pacific nations, and the coveted Pacific Cup.

Competing in the top tier of the Pacific Championships, the Kiwis faced world-class Tonga and Toa Samoa sides, strengthened by a wave of elite players pledging allegiance to the Pacific nations. They delivered dominant pool-stage performances, beating Samoa 24-18, before a commanding 40-14 win over Tonga.

The Kiwis went on to face Toa Samoa again in the final at Sydney’s Commbank Stadium. Trailing at halftime, they produced a stunning second-half comeback, scoring 30 unanswered points to storm home 36-14. The win secured their second Pacific Cup title in three years and their first under head coach Stacey Jones. The result also cemented New Zealand’s place at number two in the World Rankings.

Rugby league continues to grow in Aotearoa and around the world, with more than 50 nations now participating in the game. The same growth can be seen amongst fans, with all three Kiwis matches drawing over one million television viewers. The clash with Tonga at Eden Park attracted the largest rugby league crowd in New Zealand in over a decade, setting the stage for what is shaping up to be a blockbuster World Cup in 2026.

Also shortlisted for Team of the Year are Auckland FC (football), Black Ferns Sevens, (rugby sevens), New Zealand Black Sox (softball), the Men’s Team Pursuit (track cycling), and rowing duo Ben Taylor and Oliver Welch.  

Winners will be announced at a black-tie ceremony at Spark Arena in Auckland on Monday 16 February 2026. The evening will also crown the Sir Murray Halberg Legacy Award, Sport New Zealand’s Leadership Award, and the only publicly voted honour - New Zealand’s Favourite Sporting Moment. The ceremony will be broadcast live on Sky Sport and free-to-air on Sky Open from 8:00pm.

See the full list of nominees here: halberg.co.nz

We sadly mourn the passing of Kiwi great Garry Maxwell John Smith, New Zealand Kiwi #448, at age 84.

Smith's early years were spent representing the small town of Runanga and the West Coast region. Later moving to Wellington, Smith joined Marist and won two premierships with the club in 1965 and later in 1971. In 1965, he also featured in the North Island representative team before earning selection for the Kiwis the following year.

A talented second rower and prop, Smith played his debut campaign for the Kiwis in 1966, playing in two losses to Australia in what was the start of a six-year tenure for the Kiwis. In 1967, he toured Australia, playing in one Test and 10 of the 17 tour games. The following year, Smith played in the 1968 World Cup co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, as well as the following 1970 World Cup in Great Britain.

In 1971, his final season for New Zealand, he was a vital member of the historic 'Grand Slam Kiwis' squad. Across 86 days, the New Zealanders played 26 matches across Britain and France, six of them Tests, and achieved the feat of winning the series against Great Britain 2-0 and earning a 2-0 result against France. Smith and the 1971 Kiwis were the first official New Zealand team to win a series in the United Kingdom.

He retired from international duties with 16 Test caps for New Zealand, three Test tries, and 39 additional non-Test games for the Kiwis.

Towards the back end of his rugby league career, Smith became a Kapiti Bears Rugby League Club loyal, and was a pillar forward for Wellington's representative side.

We extend our heartfelt condolences and thoughts to Garry’s family, friends, teammates, and all whose lives he touched throughout his community. Garry will be sorely missed, but he leaves behind his contributions to the black and white jersey and the game of rugby league, that will be remembered forever.

The Trillian Trust Māori Sports Awards was hosted by Te Tohu Taakaro o Aotearoa Charitable Trust at Tūrangawaewae Marae in Ngāruawāhia on Saturday 29 November. This prestigious event celebrates Māori sporting excellence and recognises the achievements of Māori athletes, coaches, referees, and administrators across various sports codes.

Now in its 35th year, we would like to congratulate the three rugby league participants who took home awards and scholarships. Kiwis enforcer Joseph Tapine won Senior Māori Sportsman of the Year, after an outstanding year captaining the Canberra Raiders to an NRL minor premiership and being instrumental in the Kiwis’ Pacific Cup victory.

Congratulations also to Waikato referee Epiha Muru-Kete, who was awarded the Skills Active Aotearoa Māori Sports Awards Scholarship, and Te Maia Sweetman, a Mid Central Vipers and Aotearoa Whaanui representative, who received the Te Kunenga Ki Pūrehuroa Massey University Scholarship. We also recognise renowned Waikato referee Paki Parkinson, who was a finalist for the Māori Sports Umpire/Referee of the Year award.

See the full list of winners here maorisportsawards.co.nz

‍

TE TAMA-Ā-TANENUIĀRANGI | Senior Māori Sportsman of the Year
Joseph Tapine (Ngāi Tūhoe), Ahitereiria | Australia – rīki | rugby league ‍

SKILLS ACTIVE AOTEAROA | Māori Sports Awards Scholarship
Epiha Ricky Muru-Kete (Waikato Tainui), Rāhui-Pōkeka | Huntly – rīki | rugby league ‍

TE KUNENGA KI PŪREHUROA | Massey University Scholarship
Te Maia Sweetman (Rangitāne ki Tāmaki Nui a Rua), Te Papaioea | Palmerston North – whutupōro | rugby, rīki | rugby league

TE ARATIATIA | Māori Sports Umpire/Referee of the Year (finalist)‍

Paki Parkinson (Waikato Tainui) – rīki | rugby league

A new generation of New Zealand stars is determined to create their own legacy as they look to replicate the heroics of the 2008 World Cup triumph.

It will be 18 long years between drinks by the time the tournament rolls around next October, with many of the current squad too young to remember the historic victory at Suncorp Stadium.

Building towards the World Cup was a key theme throughout the Kiwis' successful Pacific Championships campaign, with coach Stacey Jones bringing in a number of the 2008 champions to shed light on a stunning upset over the Kangaroos.

Star winger Casey McLean was just two at the time and said the speeches inspired the current squad to create their own piece of history.

"We've had the old boys come into camp and talk about their journeys," McLean told NRL.com. "There were a couple of times that World Cup came up and when it did the hunger crept into the room. The boys are hungry and want that feeling again.

"The World Cup is the pinnacle of rugby league. Especially as a Kiwi, we don't play State of Origin so for us we take so much pride any time we're able to put on the Kiwis jersey."

The Kiwis are riding high on the back of a dominant Pacific Championships campaign and have emerged as the primary threat to the Kangaroos stranglehold on the trophy.

The two teams will face off in the opening game of the tournament at Allianz Stadium on October 15.  

The full schedule was unveiled on Sunday, with New Zealand joining Australia, Fiji and the Cook Islands in Pool A.

The Kiwis will host the Aitu in front of an expected sold-out crowd at the new state-of-the-art One NZ Stadium in Christchurch in their second game of the tournament.

After a disappointing semi-final exit in 2022, New Zealand have spent the past few years laying the foundation for redemption in 2026.

The squad features the perfect mix of youth and experience, an imposing forward pack and a blistering backline.

Veteran leaders James Fisher-Harris, Moses Leota and Joe Tapine set the tone up front, while McLean headlines a new generation of exciting talent.

Eight players have made their international debuts in the past two years, with Naufahu Whyte and Keano Kini helping usher in a new era for the team.

Should all go to plan in 2026, the Kiwis will return to the scene of the 2008 triumph for another crack at the title.

Suncorp Stadium will host the decider on November 15 as part of a double-header with the women's final.

Getting there, however, won't be easy.

New Zealand have fallen short at the last two World Cups, losing to Fiji in the quarter-final in 2017 and Australia in the semi-final in 2022.

Samoa and Tonga have emerged as genuine international powerhouses while England are a perennial contender.

Just getting out of the group stages will be a major achievement and McLean recognises the Kiwis can't afford an early slip-up.

"The international game's growing hugely," McLean said. "It's not just the same old countries that are going to win, it's anyone's game now.

"Even Papua New Guinea and Fiji are holding their own. It's cool that the international space is growing immensely and great to be involved from a Kiwis point of view."

Samoa and Tonga's rise has triggered a surge in support for international rugby league, with more than 44,000 fans descending on Suncorp Stadium for their clash last month.

A sell out is expected at the ground for next year's World Cup final and would break the record set during the 2008 decider for an international match at the ground.

McLean had a taste of the Suncorp atmosphere during the NRL finals series, when more than 52,000 fans packed into the stadium to watch Brisbane stun Penrith in the preliminary final.

The 19-year-old is determined to return to write new memories at the venue next November.

"The prelim was an unreal experience," McLean said. "I expected it going up to Suncorp. It was a packed crowd that was loud and it was super exciting to play there and put on a show in front of all those people.

"The atmosphere is loud, it's like an echo. It's never quiet, you can never hear a pin drop so it'll will be unreal to experience again if we get there."

For tickets and more information head to RLWC2026.com

As seen on nrl.com

We are deeply saddened by the recent passing of Selwyn “Sel” Shanks.

Sel’s contribution to rugby league over more than 70 years was immeasurable. He was fondly known by many in the community as a humble, hard worker who helped shape the domestic game into what it is today, particularly within Auckland.

Sel wore many hats from once playing, to coaching, going on to manage the New Zealand Kiwis, and serving as the Auckland Rugby League Chairman for several years.

He will be remembered for his generosity, humility, service, and love for the game, as he joins his beloved wife, the late Cherie Steele-Shanks, another renowned pioneer of the game whose contribution remains legendary.

His legacy will live on through every player, volunteer, and person he supported over his seven decades as a rugby league stalwart. To Sel and Cherie’s whānau, friends, and all those whose lives he impacted, we offer our deepest sympathies and thoughts. Moe mai rā Sel, thank you for everything you gave to our game.