STALWART SMALLRIDGE WHISTLES HUMBLE TUNE AFTER 25 YEARS
December 15, 2021
as seen on canterburyrugbyleague.co.nz
Amid the myriad gongs handed out for excellence in the current calendar year at the recent 2021 Canterbury Rugby League awards, one unassuming individual received special recognition for quarter of a century of high standards and commitment to our game.
Gary Smallridge cut his teeth in the CRL premier refereeing ranks 25 years ago, dedicating close to half of his life to one of the most demanding and important (and often maligned and thankless) jobs in rugby league.
“I was somewhat surprised by the award as I have been plodding along all these years and nothing’s been said,” Smallridge says of his CRL Special Acknowledgement Award.
“I try and keep under the radar by not going to these types of things – the only other awards night I’ve attended was in Canterbury Rugby League’s centenary year. I would love to see others recognised as well, as 10 years is a milestone – and the average career length – while Keith Bull recently sneaked away after being involved in the game for 50 years.”
The 59-year-old got his start in refereeing in one of Australia’s rugby league heartlands. Smallridge takes up the story of how he first picked up the whistle:
“I was playing lower grades in Brisbane when a guy I worked with talked to me about trying out when he found out I refereed touch football. I went along and they had over 100 referees turn up on a Tuesday training.
“I had to pass a written exam and then-current premiership referee Eddie Ward asked me five oral questions and I got my ticket. I was refereeing 13- and 14-year-old grades and touch judging premier football in the weekends. I did a couple of seasons and then returned to NZ in 1995 and decided to continue.
“I believe that couple of seasons in Brisbane gave me a good grounding. When I turned up in Christchurch they saw some potential in me, and I was fast-tracked doing my first premier grade in ‘96. Looking back, I think I’d have struggled to make premiers in Brisbane due to the numbers.”
When asked how he has maintained the motivation to continue refereeing at this level for so long, Smallridge provides an answer straight out of the rugby league cliché handbook, echoing countless others whose craving for a Saturday afternoon footy fix bubbles to the surface as each winter rolls around.
“You’re a long time retired,” he says.
“I still love the game and having the best seat in the house helps. Unfortunately, there can be a bit of politics involved around appointments and rankings, and I nearly gave it away when it started affecting family and friends.
“But I’ve tried to take the attitude of just getting on with the job I’ve been given. That has helped, but at semi-final time you always get the urge to go all the way.
“Watching teams and individuals develop over the years has been one of the best parts of refereeing in this competition for so long. I loved watching the likes of Riccarton, Kaiapoi and Papanui winning their premierships over the regular big guns, while also seeing the careers of local players like Lewis Brown and Corey Lawrie develop.
“The challenging part is always going to come back to how you deal with individuals questioning your integrity. I’ve always been able to put it down to my passion for the game at the time; unfortunately there are some who can take (criticism) a step too far, but it’s also a great feeling when a spectator acknowledges that you handled a hard game well.”
Smallridge has been something of a refereeing bridesmaid during his Canterbury Rugby League tenure, but he has controlled three premier Grand Finals – the first back in 2002, which saw Riccarton Knights claim their maiden title with a 54-14 rout of Linwood Keas.
Underlining his consistency and reliability over a long period, Smallridge’s most recent appointment to the biggest game on the CRL calendar came just four months ago, handed the duties for the 2021 Grand Final at Ngā Puna Wai. His cool-headed temperament in a pressure-cooker environment contributed to a match fought on a knife’s edge between archrivals Hornby Panthers and Linwood Keas being one of the great modern deciders.
“I’ve always started a season with the goal of a Grand Final and to do three is a highlight, however my record for Gore Cup finals – usually the second-best ref – will probably never be broken.
“I believe my style of reffing has led to me being a consistent local referee, but I didn’t have that edge required to go the extra step up. In saying that, I have had a few trips around the country and games that stand out would be Russia playing Canterbury (in 2004) and Canterbury versus Wellington for the 100-year anniversary.
“Another was Shirley and Woolston in the nineties when it was Black Power versus Mongrel Mob played out at Eaton Field at Paparua Prison, while for a different reason a Kaiapoi versus Sydenham match where I sent all 26 players off was particularly memorable.”
Recruiting and retaining referees remains one of the greatest challenges in grassroots rugby league. For every Gary Smallridge, there are dozens who walk away from the whistle for one reason or another.
But the commitment and passion of a dedicated few ensures the refereeing vocation – and consequently the game – continues to subsist, if only barely.
“The game in Canterbury has been so lucky to have the likes of the Arneson brothers and Lightfoot family who kept the Referees Association going without too much bother,” Smallridge explains.
“There have always been the same issues in rugby league, but it should be about how we make the game better – not about what people can get out of the game. The referees have lost so much experience over the last few years with retirements and people walking away, feeling aggrieved in some way.
“We are now struggling to provide coverage for every game even though there is now a clear pathway to higher honours. Instead of having elections we are now pleading for someone to step up into the leadership roles.”
Smallridge has a simple yet poignant message for anyone contemplating getting involved in refereeing:
“Go down to a kid’s game and tell me if they deserve an adult to put in the time to support them while they are enjoying themselves.
“If you want to stay or become involved in sport then being a match official is certainly a good place to start. I never went anywhere in my own league career but have now been involved in Grand Finals and representative games through refereeing.”
Former NRL stars such as Henry Perenara and Luke Patten have made the shift to the match official ranks at the elite level in recent times.
Meanwhile, Halswell premiership-winning player and coach Darrell Coad is one of the latest additions to the CRL refereeing ranks – a trend Smallridge believes could be an invaluable stream for grassroots footy to tap into.
“It’s the best thing that can happen in our game,” Smallridge asserts.
“Knowledge about what players are thinking or going through during matches allows a better feel for the game. A sin-bin or send-off can cost a team dearly but a quiet word in the ear of a player on the edge from someone who has been there can have a calming effect.
“(The late) Darryl Hawker is one who is missed in the referee ranks – and the game in general – as he had performed of every role that the game had to offer and would share that knowledge to everyone involved.”
New Zealand Rugby League and its affiliates have increasingly put measures in place to make the game a safer and more hospitable environment for match officials.
The message that referees are human and make errors and analyse their own performance to the extent any player does cannot be understated.
“If a referee can finish a game and they are not talking about him then he’s done a good job,” Smallridge says.
“I’ve probably been lucky in my career that I can’t think of any incidents where I have been intimidated or threatened to the extent that I have thought about giving it away, but unfortunately too many volunteer referees have.
“If a referee is out there trying his best, then our mistakes shouldn’t cost a team a game. I’ve lost count of the times when I checked the 10 metres outside me and missed the knock-on in the play-the-ball. It’s not a nice feeling but it’s a common mistake.
“It is good to see that we are trying to look after match officials in all sports but again we need to look at ourselves as a society when it comes to violence and intimidation for perceived mistakes during a game.
“Twenty-five years has flown by and I have enjoyed every minute, but I don’t think I’ve ever had the perfect game. No one is harder on a referee than himself and so it is always good to get assessed or graded by someone who knows the game. Some of my best gradings though were with people who know the game – Chris Baxter, ‘Jigsy’ (Brent Ringdahl), Frank Endacott – over a beer in the clubrooms after a game. Knowing what players and coaches go through certainly helped my game but they, and spectators, probably need to know what we go through as well.”
So how much longer can we expect to see Smallridge blowing time on, marshalling the 10 metres and pointing to the spot after a tryscoring movement at Leslie Park, Murphy Park, Linwood Park and Ngā Puna Wai?
“I know I’m on my last legs – well, knees actually – and have had a retirement plan in action for a while now, but I’m still enjoying it.
“I’ve been saying ‘one last year’ for the last 10 but wanted to lose my spot to someone coming up the ranks, so they must fight for it – unfortunately they keep retiring before me! I retired from representative football years ago and although I want to see others develop there is nothing better than being asked to control a representative fixture still, so I keep doing them as well if appointed.
“I’m 60 in September next year, so if the goal is to do premiers at 60 then that means two more seasons – but is that good for the game?”
Reflecting on the past 25 years, Smallridge takes the opportunity to thank the myriad people who have aided his Canterbury Rugby League refereeing odyssey.
“Firstly, there’s Jacquoi (Smallridge), who at 10 years old followed me around to games and trainings as I was a solo father for a while – it would be all quiet forming a scrum or something and I would hear ‘come on, Gary’.
“Also the Arneson and Baxter brothers, the Lightfoot family, Jim Stokes, Neville Pritchard, Steve Toms, Steve Martin, Jason Wilson and the many more CRLRA members; current and former CRL employees over the years, especially Duane Fyfe and Tracy Fleet; and the touch judges, match managers and ball boys who have assisted me during every game.
“A special and everlasting thanks to the Blackler family, especially Ken, who as a former referee was a great and loyal supporter, trainer and assessor to me while also giving his daughter’s hand in marriage to me.
“And Sharyn – we met after a league game and you have supported me through the last 22 years of my career. Sorry about the lawns and the housekeeping during the winter but I promise there’s not long to go now!
“Lastly thanks to all involved in the great game of rugby league – it’s been an honour and a privilege to be involved. Thank you one and all.”
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A stage for every school: NZRL National Secondary Schools Tournament returns this September
The biggest event on the secondary school rugby league calendar is back as the NZRL National Secondary Schools Tournament returns to Auckland this September. The 2025 tournament was the biggest in the event’s history with 60 teams from across Aotearoa taking part, and the 2026 edition is on track to surpass that milestone.
Currently, 71 teams from across the motu have expressed interest in participating in this year’s tournament, with 50% of those teams travelling from outside of Auckland as the game continues to grow outside of the rugby league hub.
Following continued growth and strong participation numbers, the U15 Boys Tournament will be held as a standalone event from Tuesday 1 September to Thursday 3 September at Walter Massey Park in Mangere.
The Senior Secondary Schools Tournament will follow, taking place from Friday 4 September to Sunday 6 September at Bruce Pulman Park, Papakura, featuring three grades:
• Open Girls Championship
• Boys Championship
• Boys Premiership
The expanded format will allow more teams to participate while enhancing the overall tournament experience for players, coaches, and supporters. Sanctioned by New Zealand School Sport, the tournament is open to all secondary schools, including composite teams. It aims to provide an inclusive and accessible environment for all students, from established rugby league schools, to developing schools, and those new to the sport.
While offering rangatahi the opportunity to showcase their talents on the field, the tournament also uses rugby league as a vehicle to build school pride. It provides students with the chance to play alongside their mates and represent their school and community, while reinforcing the importance of balancing education, wellbeing, and sport.
Since the return of the tournament following COVID-19 disruptions, it has seen over 150% growth. This significant increase reflects the rising popularity of rugby league within secondary schools and the commitment of schools to providing rugby league opportunities, supported by the growing visibility and accessibility of the game across Aotearoa.
With rugby league at an all-time high in New Zealand, rangatahi now have more opportunities than ever to progress through the game. NZRL representative tournaments and competitions complement those offered by the New Zealand Warriors, creating clear development opportunities for aspiring players.
Limited spaces remain available across all grades and entries are open to all secondary schools, including composite schools. Schools wishing to participate are encouraged to complete the Expression of Interest form as soon as possible to secure a spot before capacity is reached.
Must be completed by a member of school staff, entries close on Monday 15 June 2026: sporty.co.nz
Kennedy Cherrington switches allegiance to Kiwi Ferns ahead of RLWC 2026
State of Origin champion and NRLW Grand Finalist Kennedy Cherrington has officially pledged allegiance to the Kiwi Ferns for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup and beyond.
This follows the IRL’s decision to remove the tier system for women’s nations and the modernisation of Origin eligibility rules, now allowing Cherrington to represent New Zealand, while still being eligible for New South Wales.
Widely regarded as one of the best forwards in the women’s game, Cherrington has made six Test appearances for the Jillaroos since 2022, and is a five-time Māori All Star.
Although Australian-born, Cherrington spoke on her deep connection to Aotearoa through her Māori whakapapa, with ties to Northland’s Ngāti Hine and Ngāpuhi on her father’s side, and Ngāti Tūwharetoa from Korohe, and the East Coast-based Ngāti Ruapani ki Waikaremoana, on her mother’s side.
“My connection to Aotearoa has always been a big part of who I am. This decision is about honouring my whakapapa, my whānau, and my culture.
“As soon as the rules changed, I was on the phone to (coach) Ricky Henry straight away and I wanted to let him know that I would love to be in the selection pool for the Rugby League World Cup.
“Earning a Kiwi Ferns jersey is something I’ll work hard for, and it would mean the world to me to represent New Zealand”, she said.
New Zealand Rugby League GM of Football and High Performance Motu Tony commented, “Kennedy is a highly talented player with deep pride in her Māori heritage and excellent experience, making her a valuable addition to our current player pool.
“As with all players, Kennedy will progress through the standard selection process, but we’re excited she has committed her international future to New Zealand, and to potentially see her in the Kiwi Ferns jersey at the World Cup this year.”
The Kiwi Ferns open their World Cup campaign against Fiji Bulikula at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium on October 18 before meeting France at Christchurch’s new indoor venue, One NZ Stadium, on October 25 and the Papua New Guinea Orchids at Cbus Super Stadium on October 31.
Lemalu Fred Ah Kuoi appointed Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit
We congratulate Lemalu Fred Ah Kuoi, New Zealand Kiwi #522 and NZRL Legend of League, on his appointment to the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours.
This significant milestone comes in recognition of Ah Kuoi's outstanding services to rugby league and the community, spanning a lifetime of heavy involvement in rugby league as a national and international representative player, and a grassroots coach, administrator, and supporter.
Ah Kuoi made his international rugby league debut for the New Zealand Māori team at the age of 18 in 1975, before debuting for the Kiwis later that same year, on the wing against Australia at Carlaw Park.
He captained the Kiwis for six tests in the 1980s, and at the age of 23 was the youngest Pasifika player to captain the Kiwis. He led the team to a historic 3-0 win against the touring Lions team in 1984, and would go on to play 47 games and 28 Tests for the Kiwis throughout his decorated career.
His contribution to the game extended beyond the field and into the community through his continued involvement with his beloved local club, the Richmond Rovers in Grey Lynn, Auckland, both during and after his professional career. He coached the Richmond Premier men's team for 10 years and became a founding director of the Richmond Rovers Rugby League Academy, a free development programme which has run for eight years to help young rugby league players excel in all areas of life.
After living in the United States for 17 years, Ah Kuoi returned to New Zealand in 2015 and established the ‘WAI - Who Am I’ course, delivered through the Department of Corrections to help mentor and develop young offenders in the community through physical training, discipline, and life coaching.
Congratulations Fred on this phenomenal and well-deserved achievement.
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Remembering Ron Farrell
We very sadly acknowledge the passing of Wellington Rugby League great Ron Farrell.
Ron leaves behind an enduring legacy as the most capped Wellington representative ever, playing 81 games for the region over a renowned 12-year tenure from 1963 to 1975.
In 1966, Ron was selected as a reserve for the Kiwis in their second test against Great Britain, and in 1975, he went on to captain his Waterside club to their only ever Appleton Shield win in the Wellington Premiership.
A proud Ngāti Porou man, the talented prop, loose-forward, and second-rower was also a champion for Māori rugby league.
Ron was a gifted cross-code athlete as a competitive tennis player, and is fondly remembered as being a role model to young up-and-coming rugby league and tennis players alike.
We offer our deepest sympathies to Ron's whānau, friends, and the Wellington community at this deeply sad time, moe mai rā, Ron.
NZRL welcomes Benefitz as official print and signage partner
Auckland-based company Benefitz have partnered with New Zealand Rugby League as official print and signage suppliers.
In addition to printing and signage, Benefitz offers a broad range of services encompassing design, advertising, exhibitions, publishing, and web development.
NZRL General Manager of Communications and Marketing Amy Thomason shared,
“Since first connecting with Benefitz in 2025, their services and support have been outstanding, especially in helping us brand Go Media Stadium and Eden Park during the Pacific Championships.
“We’re very excited to bring them on board as official partners and look forward to working alongside them again this year, especially throughout our World Cup campaign.”
Benefitz Senior Account Manager Dan Ellensohn said, "We offer a wide range of solutions that add real value for NZRL when organising events, Amy and the team have experienced this first-hand at Go Media Stadium and Eden Park.
“The key is we produce these solutions at our solar-powered state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, offering advantages in efficiency and overall value. Benefitz also has a track record of 38 years of innovation, and as a team, we love working on events.
“We are excited about this partnership with NZRL, particularly with rugby league being on such a growth curve in New Zealand."
Rugby League Hawke’s Bay set to host NZRL senior Men’s & Women’s Premierships & Championships
In a first for the region, Rugby League Hawke’s Bay is set to host the NZRL Men’s Premiership North pool, alongside the National Women’s Premiership, and the National Men’s and Women’s Championship tournaments.
The action will unfold across one historic weekend from September 12-13 at Mitre 10 Sports Park, which boasts eight fields, a grandstand, and additional world-class facilities in the heart of Hastings.
RLHB Chairman Anthony Taueki Chairman shared, “This landmark occasion marks the very first time Rugby League Hawke’s Bay has been entrusted to host an NZRL event of this scale and we are truly grateful for the opportunity, the partnership, and the belief shown in our region.
“Hosting these prestigious national tournaments is more than just rugby league, it is a powerful opportunity to showcase Hawke’s Bay on a national stage, strengthen our local league community, boost regional economic growth through visitors and tourism and prove that our region is ready, capable, and deserving of future major tournaments.
“We invite our entire region to stand with us, show up, support, and help make this unforgettable weekend a true celebration of rugby league excellence.”
David McMeeken, NZRL National Football Operations Manager said,
“The work done by Rugby League Hawke’s Bay across the region has been outstanding, and the strong relationships formed by Rugby League Hawke’s Bay with Napier City Council, Hastings District Council and the Hawke’s Bay Sports Park team, have played a huge role in making these events possible.
“There’s real momentum building for rugby league in Hawke’s Bay. From growing participation at grassroots, through to the return of the Hawke’s Bay Men’s representative team at the 2025 North Island Championship, the District continues to show its commitment to developing and strengthening the game.
“NZRL are excited to bring our national tournaments to Hawke’s Bay and showcase the region on a national stage. These tournaments are about more than a game, they are an opportunity for Districts and Zones to share their pride and passion, and celebrate and represent their communities.”
This year will introduce a revised Premiership structure, featuring a tournament format that replaces the previous weekly competition model. The Men’s Premiership will continue to operate across two (2) pools; North and South. The top two (2) teams from both the North Island and South Island tournaments will progress to the national semi-finals in Auckland on Saturday 26 September, before the Grand Final is played on Sunday 27 September.
The South Island Men’s Premiership tournament will be hosted at Ngā Puna Wai in Christchurch, an exceptional venue which previously hosted Premiership fixtures and the 2025 National Youth Tournament.
The Women’s Premiership tournament will see all teams compete in Hawke’s Bay, with the top two (2) finishing teams advancing directly to the National Grand Final in Auckland on Sunday 27 September, alongside the men’s final.
The tragic passing of Eugene Hanna
We are deeply saddened that one of our rugby league whānau, Eugene Hanna of the Glenora Bears, has tragically passed away.
First and foremost, we send our sincere condolences to his whānau, friends, teammates, and all who knew and loved Eugene in such a difficult time.
This is truly heartbreaking and something we never want to see happen, and we are currently working alongside Auckland Rugby League, his club and other appropriate people.
NZRL places the utmost importance on player safety and welfare and work hard to prevent such tragic outcomes. We have rigorous head injury and concussion protocols in place and work with our rugby league community to ensure appropriate resources and education are provided year-round.
We urge anyone who sustains a head injury or experiences any symptoms to follow the guidelines in place, seek the appropriate medical advice and treatment, and only return to play when advised and appropriate.
You can find more concussion information and resources here: nzrl.co.nz/concussion
Two-time NRLW Premiership-winning coach Ronald Griffiths joins Kiwi Ferns
Ronald Griffiths has joined the Kiwi Ferns as an Assistant Coach ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup campaign.
Widely regarded for his success in the women’s game, Griffiths brings extensive experience and achievement to Ricky Henry’s coaching staff.
Henry shared his enthusiasm to have Griffiths join the team, “Ron brings a winning record, a wealth of experience and a strong understanding of the women’s game.
“His leadership, authenticity, and football knowledge will build confidence within the group and enhance our culture and connection. I’m looking forward to working alongside him as we build towards the World Cup.”
As Head Coach of the Newcastle Knights NRLW side from 2022 to 2023, Griffiths guided the club to back-to-back Premiership titles before moving into the Knights’ NSW Cup Head Coach role in 2024.
Griffiths has called Aotearoa home since 2025, when he relocated with his whānau to take on the Warriors NRLW Head Coach role in their return to the competition.
Last year, he also coached the Indigenous All Stars men’s side before taking charge of the Cook Islands Moana women’s team during the Pacific Championships, and returning to All Stars duties earlier this year in Rotorua.
“The opportunity to represent New Zealand, it’s really important to me. I do it well and I do it with pride.
“Talking with Ricky around his philosophy, I think we’re going to be a great match because he’s got a certain skill set and I’ve got a different skill set. Being able to drive his vision, the Kiwi Fern vision, I think that's my strength and that’s going to help us at the back end of the year.”
The Kiwi Ferns will begin their World Cup campaign in Newcastle, Australia, on Sunday 18 October.
Kiwi Ferns Coaching Staff
Head Coach: Ricky Henry
Assistant Coaches: David Faiumu, Ana Fotu, Ronald Griffiths
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Remembering Wayne Robertson Kiwi #508
We very sadly acknowledge and mourn the recent passing of Wayne Robertson, New Zealand Kiwi #508.
Wayne was a renowned and talented forward from Auckland who had an illustrious career, playing rugby league in Auckland, Brisbane, and Canterbury, in addition to playing three Tests for New Zealand.
A nephew of 1940s-50s Kiwis Maurice and Bruce Robertson, Wayne played for Brisbane Rugby League grand finalists Norths in 1967, earning selection in the Brisbane representative team before returning home to Auckland in 1968 to play for Ponsonby.
Venturing to the South Island, Robertson helped Hornby win the 1969 title and represented Canterbury. Returning home to Auckland in 1971, he toured Queensland with NZ Colts in 1973.
At age 27, Wayne went on to make his Test debut for the Kiwis, coming off the bench to replace Lindsay Proctor during the first Test win over Great Britain in 1974. Wayne would go on to play all three Tests against the Lions that year, starting in the second-row in the remaining two Tests, both won by the tourists.
Robertson was a standout at prop for Auckland against Australia in 1975 before being lured back to Hornby (along with fellow Auckland Kiwis Robert Jarvis and Murray Wright) in 1976. Despite making himself unavailable for Canterbury selection, he won the D.V. Syme Rosebowl as the 1976 CRL Sportsman of the Year winner, courageously playing on with a suspected broken arm later in the season.
Auckland’s best and fairest award winner in 1979 after joining Te Atatu, Robertson brought a long and distinguished top-level career to an end the following season.
Off the field, Wayne was a creative spirit. Operating out of his art studio in Howick, he became a celebrated painter, capturing the essence of the game’s spiritual home with his famed Carlaw Park prints. He was admired by many as a man of immense character, who gave back to the game after his playing days through coaching at Glenora and Richmond.
Wayne's contribution to the game was immense, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and dedication to rugby league. We offer our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Robertson family, his beloved clubs and communities across, and all who were fortunate enough to know Wayne.
Andrea Nelson MNZM appointed Chief Executive of New Zealand Rugby League
New Zealand Rugby League today announces the appointment of Andrea Nelson MNZM as its new Chief Executive, ushering in a new chapter for one of the most iconic sporting organisations in Aotearoa.
Andrea brings more than two decades of senior leadership experience across national and international sport, major global events, governance and commercial strategy.
Her appointment comes at a time of significant momentum for rugby league in New Zealand – from record participation growth and expanding pathways for wāhine and rangatahi, through to packed stadiums, growing broadcast audiences and continued success on the international stage.
NZRL Chair, Justin Leydesdorff, says the appointment panel were thrilled by the calibre of candidates for the role. Andrea stood out as an exceptional leader with both world-class experience and a genuine connection to the game and its communities.
“Andrea brings an incredibly rare combination of strategic leadership, operational delivery and authentic passion for rugby league.
“She’s worked at the highest levels of governance and commercial sport, and understands what it takes to grow organisations in complex environments. But equally as important to the code, she demonstrated a deep understanding of community sport and people.
“We wanted a leader who could sit across the table from the biggest decision-makers in international rugby league, but who would also happily pick up a tea towel at a local club on the East Coast. Andrea is that person,” says Justin.
Andrea has led major international sporting events - as NZ General Manager for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup and helped lead the delivery and commercial development of the Oceania Cup, the precursor to the Pacific Championships.
She also held senior leadership roles across some of the world’s largest sporting organisations and events, including the London Olympic and Paralympic Games, FIFA U20 World Cup, ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, Chair NZ Events Association and CEO Gymnastics New Zealand.
New Zealand will head into this year’s Rugby League World Cup campaign with the Kiwis, Kiwi Ferns and Wheel Kiwis teams all strongly positioned on the world stage.
Nelson said returning to rugby league felt like a natural homecoming.
“I’m thrilled and honoured to be entrusted with the role of Chief Executive of NZRL.
“Being part of delivering the 2017 Rugby League World Cup in Aotearoa was a career highlight. While I’ve continued to work across sport since then, rugby league has always held a special place for me, so this in many ways feels like a homecoming,” she says.
“I am a huge believer in the power of sport to change lives for the better, and that sits at the heart of rugby league’s ‘More Than a Game’ kaupapa. Rugby league’s greatest strength has always been, and always will be, its people, and I look forward to working together to shape the future of the game.”
The appointment follows a sustained period of growth and transformation for rugby league in New Zealand under the leadership of exiting CEO, Greg Peters.
Participation numbers across the community game have continued to grow strongly in recent years, with wāhine and rangatahi participation more than doubling since 2021. In 2024, wāhine made up 20 percent of the national player base, while rangatahi accounted for 30 percent.
The sport’s premier youth tournaments have also experienced major growth, including more than 60 teams competing at the 2025 NZ Secondary Schools tournament – a 320 percent increase over seven years.
At the elite level, rugby league continues to thrive, with more than 38,000 fans attending last year’s Pacific Championships match at Eden Park – the largest rugby league crowd in Aotearoa in more than a decade – while television audiences for both the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns continue to climb.
Founded in 1910, NZRL remains one of New Zealand’s most storied sporting organisations, with rugby league continuing to play a vital role in communities across Aotearoa, particularly among Māori and Pasifika communities.
Hale finalises future ahead of World Cup
Kiwi Ferns captain Georgia Hale will lead New Zealand into the World Cup with her long term- future confirmed after inking a fresh two-year extension with the Titans.
A foundation Warriors and Titans NRLW player, the 30-year-old has developed into an instrumental leader for her club and country.
A member of the Warriors inaugural squad in 2018, Hale joined the Titans in 2021 and has further become one of the most respected figures in the competition; leading from the front with incredible performances and unwavering commitment to her teammates.
A Golden Boot winner in 2023 as the Women's International Rugby League player of the year, Hale has played 23 Tests for the Kiwi Ferns and last year notched her 50th NRLW appearance during the finals.
Titans coach Karyn Murphy said the New Zealand forward has been instrumental in shaping the club’s NRLW program both on and off the field, setting the standard with her professionalism, work ethic and passion for the jersey.
"Georgia is the heart and soul of our team," Murphy said.
"Her leadership, experience and care for her teammates are second to none, and she sets the standard every single day.
"She’s not only a world-class player, but an incredible role model who drives the culture of our program.
"She embodies everything we stand for as a club and to have her commit long-term is a huge win for not just our team but for our entire community."
Hale was 19 years old when she first travelled to Australia with the Kiwi Ferns in 2014 and the players had to pay half of the costs for the trip.
She is now set to captain New Zealand at RLWC2026, as the Kiwi Ferns seek to regain the trophy they held from the inaugural Women's World Cup in 2000 until Murphy led the Jillaroos to victory against their trans-Tasman rivals for the first time in the 2013 final.
The Kiwi Ferns draw for RLWC2026 is:
- October 18 v Fiji at McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle
- October 25 v France at One NZ Stadium, Christchurch
- October 31 v PNG at Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast
The 2017 World Cup and the introduction of the NRLW in 2018 were game changers, and Hale has evolved from a playmaker to the protype lock at the Titans.
"From the moment I arrived, this club has felt like home," Hale said.
"We’ve built something really special here and I’m excited to continue that journey.
"There’s a strong connection between the players, staff and community and I’m proud to lead this group as we continue to grow and chase history together, winning that first premiership for the Gold Coast."
A Veronica White Medal winner in 2020, Hale grew up around rugby league because of her father Laurie’s involvement with the Warriors and Kiwis, and she developed a strong passion for a game.
She was a pioneer Warriors player in 2018 and joined the Titans when the club was forced to withdraw from the NRLW competition due to COVID. Hale has also played for Leeds in the Women’s Super League.
While she is now committed to the Gold Coast until at least 2028, Hale welcomed the return of the Warriors to the NRLW last year as a boost for New Zealand rugby league.
“We're going to get two seasons with the Warriors leading into the World Cup in 2026, so that's obviously going to build more depth,” Hale told NRL.com.
“I think the Kiwi Ferns is in a really good space. We've welcomed in a new wave of players over last year and this year and I think we're really hitting straps.
“We're working towards that World Cup goal, so I'm really enjoying the footy I'm playing and the girls I'm playing alongside.”
Rugby League World Cup 2026 returns to Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Where nations clash, heroes rise, and legends are forged. 3 World Cups. 26 Teams. The World’s Best. Tickets are now on sale from $19. Don’t miss the pinnacle of global Rugby League.
As seen on rlwc2026.com
NZRL's Pirtek Volunteer of the Month for April 2026
Our Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award returns for 2026, celebrating and recognising heroes from our grassroots rugby league community across Aotearoa for their hard mahi, dedicated to our game. This award is given to volunteers who display the core values of The Kiwi Way: being family first, innovative, inclusive, respectful, and humble.
We are proud to announce our first winner for 2026, the Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award for April goes to Puti Muru from the Pikiao Warriors in Rotorua, Bay of Plenty.
Puti is known within Pikiao for consistently going above and beyond to support players and their whānau, especially the U10 boys team.
At a time when living costs such as fuel are high, Puti organises vans and transport for players to and from games, to ease the burden on families.
She is the first to arrive and last to leave on game days, often bringing her cooker to run a sausage sizzle so tamariki have kai without added cost to their whānau.
Behind the scenes, Puti works hard to keep the team connected, keeping clear communication with families around training schedules and game day timings.
Last season, she organised a team trip up to Auckland, where the players enjoyed an amazing day out at Rainbow's End, followed by a Warriors NRL game, rewarding them for all their effort and commitment throughout the season.
After the team weren't able to close off their 2025 season with a prize-giving ceremony, Puti is already determined to ensure the team will have one this year to celebrate not only the children, but also their parents and whānau as supporters.
Her big heart for the players, parents, and wider whānau, and her commitment to making sure the team runs smoothly and safely, does not go unnoticed.
Pirtek CEO Chris Bourke shared, "Congratulations Puti on being named Pirtek Volunteer of the Month!
"Your dedication to supporting your team and whānau truly reflects The Kiwi Way, consistently going above and beyond to support families, remove barriers, and put the kids first, making a real difference every week."
Know a volunteer who does exceptional mahi? Help us celebrate these grassroots heroes by nominating them for the next Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award.
Each monthly winner will receive $200 worth of vouchers and have their story shared across our channels.
Make a nomination here: https://share.hsforms.com/2Lq4cbueQRVCRwqK8vsfK_Qsy1ug