July 11, 2022

2022 sees the return of the prestigious Pirtek Volunteer of the Month award, where our rugby league community gets a chance to see their hard mahi recognised across the motu. This award is gifted to a volunteer who displays the core values of NZRL’s Kiwi Way: being family first, innovative, inclusive, respectful, respectful and humble. We are excited to announce that the first winner in 2022 and the month of June is Gina Allan.

Gina has been a pillar for women’s rugby league in Northland over the years. Allan has no playing experience, but her determination and passion for seeing the game grow in Northland is unmatched. Her impact is seen as the number of participants in the New Zealand Māori Rugby League (NZMRL) tournaments for her club Nga Puhi Ahi, increases yearly.

Gina’s rugby league journey started with NZMRL tournaments but has now expanded her reach, creating opportunities for our rangatahi both in and out of Northland. Allan found a rugby league home with the Hibiscus Coast Raiders, which enabled girls to play regularly in junior grades over the last two years. This meant accommodating the girls; whether they had to leave Whangarei around 5 am to make 10 am games or taking girls to trials in Auckland, Gina would make an effort without hesitation.

Gina’s work never goes unnoticed; from organising fundraisers to sorting equipment, Gina is a crucial figure in Northland Rugby League.

Pirtek CEO Chris Bourke commented on the winner, “Gina Allan is an amazing nomination for the Pirtek Volunteer of the Month and the well-deserved winner.”

“Without any rugby league experience, Gina has created a club that she founded back in 2018, allowing young Māori women to participate and thrive while also committing to Hibiscus Coast Raiders.”

“People like Gina are imperative to the ongoing success and development of women’s rugby league in New Zealand, and we commend her for her contribution to the game.”

Congratulations Gina!