Hauraki Maori Rugby League (2026)

17/10/2025

Hauraki Māori Rugby League – Team of the Year

This team was exceptional -packed with talent, overflowing with heart, and driven by a passion that lit up every field they stepped onto. They didn’t just play the game -they lived the kaupapa.
Their sportsmanship was unwavering, both on and off the field. They carried our Tikanga me ngā uara with pride, showing deep respect for the kaupapa and for each other. Every tackle, every haka, every moment was backed by the strength of whānau who stood beside them, lifted them, and helped them rise.
They followed their coach with trust and pride, and in doing so, became a living example of what Hauraki Māori stands for. This team didn’t just represent -they inspired. They showed us what unity, commitment, and aroha can achieve.

🏆Jusdyce Penno
A leader of many. Jusdyce carries a presence that exudes confidence and wisdom. Relied on for structure, he was paramount in setting lines, distributing the ball, holding defensive shape, and maintaining calm in high-pressure moments. His athleticism stood out and drew attention from opposing teams. A composed and commanding captain.

🏆Manaaki Wihongi-Timothy
A gracious player who always did the mahi without ever seeking the spotlight. When the team needed him, he didn’t just step up -he lifted everyone with him. Watching Manaaki grow into his leadership role and apply it with humility was a highlight of the season.

🏆Keylan Taogaga
A true league player -strong, decisive, and reliable. Keylan set up sharp outside passes, shut down big attackers, and measured the team’s success by his own effort. His consistency and game sense made him a key figure in every match.

🏆Braxton Hewlett
A defensive coach’s dream. From the first whistle, Braxton charged ahead and shut down play after play. His heart and guts are what league is all about. Add agility and ball skills, and you have a well-rounded, relentless competitor.

🏆Ihaia Walters
One half of our dynamic duo. Ihaia is league-smart and physically unrelenting. If you need a ball carried into contact, he’s your guy. His strength and game awareness made him a dependable force throughout the tournament.

🏆Isaiah Walters
The other half of the dynamic duo. Isaiah meets every opponent - no matter their size -with a firm shoulder and strong back. League isn’t just a game to him, it’s his passion. He brings intensity, pride, and fearless commitment.

🏆Wetene Walters
The youngest of the Walters brothers, but no less fierce. Wetene has inherited a kete full of skills and heart. He runs it straight, takes the hits, and keeps coming. Every tackle, every run -he’s ready to challenge anything.

🏆Akiyah Mulrennan
A kotiro with fire in her feet and heat in her tackles. Akiyah brings passion, agility, and hunger to every moment. She’s driven like a seasoned athlete and plays with the kind of intensity that turns heads.

🏆Rhythm McAlister
Fun and easygoing -until the whistle blows. Rhythm is a 25-year-old bodybuilder in disguise, flashing a smile before taking down players twice his size. Defense with dimples, and a serious game to match.

🏆Riley Miller
Skilled and passionate, Riley is unafraid and eager to learn. He brings energy to every field, makes dependable metres, and continues to grow with each game. A player with heart and hustle.

🏆Tiare Matena
All go, no stop. Tiare is a big character in a little body -full of energy, agility, and vision. He sees plays unfold and has the drive to make them happen. A never-ending battery of work.

🏆Kade Hurley
If you don’t bring him down in the first five metres, you’ll need the whole team. Kade’s enthusiasm is infectious, and his willingness to learn stood out. A powerful runner with a bright future.

🏆Max Tauranga
Powerful and strong, Max delivers textbook wrap tackles that stop attackers cold. Once he finds his line, metres come easy. Always seeking improvement, Max made a big impact with his eagerness to refine plays and tactics.

🏆Mereaneta Wirihana-Ngataierua-Curry
Soft-spoken until she clicks -then she’s everywhere. Mereaneta steps in front of attackers, gets behind the ball, and brings the noise. She has the potential to be a very exciting player with a fearless edge.

🏆Cullum Burton
Speed and power wrapped in humility. Cullum prioritises team over self, always making sure others are included and empowered. On and off the field, he offers support and embodies true sportsmanship.

🏆Arlen Reneti
Quiet but never idle. Arlen was confident with the ball and comfortable in contact. He had strong runs and, once settled into the team, was always in the huddle lifting others up. A steady and supportive presence.

🏆Carter-Jay Ewart
League on legs. Carter-Jay’s passion and understanding of the game are undeniable. Quick to run the ball and wrap it up, he’s a pest in the best way. His instincts and energy make him one to watch.

🏆Marley Thornhill-Rangi
Full of energy and curiosity. Marley asked the best questions -and often had the answers. Always in the huddle, always enthusiastic. On the field, he made hard-earned metres and doubled up on defence. A vibrant contributor.

🏆Tyler Lowe
Strong, purposeful, and impactful. Tyler’s one-man defence held back powerful attacks, and his runs forced defensive lines to work overtime. A growing talent with the right mindset and physicality.

🏆Jesse Thompson
Shy at first, but once he opened up -a bubbly, goofy workhorse. Packed with speed, excellent ball skills, and an attacking GPS that led him straight to the tryline. Jesse used every opportunity to grow and showed what can be achieved through hardwork and discipline.

17/10/2025

🏆Walker Coll
As Captain, Walker led the team with laser focus. A disciplined and energetic player with an endless tank, he gave everything to keep his team afloat. His agility earned crucial metres, and his relentless try-line defence held up multiple scoring attempts. A stellar player whose leadership and performance earned him MVP status.

🏆Faith Aupouri-Hau
Raised within a league whānau, Faith brought deep game knowledge and instinctive play. She was always in the right lane defensively, shutting down attacks and running powerful lines to hit the ball up. A well-trained and confident league player with a strong future.

🏆Piriora Peka
Light on his feet and ever-present when the ball was in our possession. Piriora’s footwork was dazzling -if stepping was an Olympic sport, he’d be chasing gold. A creative and elusive attacker who kept defenders guessing.

🏆Raoul Tangatateparu
A quiet contributor with solid potential. Raoul showed glimpses of league smart manoeuvres, and with continued development, he has the tools to grow into a reliable and impactful player.

🏆Marley Foote
A no-holds-barred defender. If you ran near Marley, you were going down. His defence turned games in our favour, and his fitness kept him involved in every phase. Tough, dependable, and always ready.

🏆Rome Motu-Withers
A strong runner and a dependable support player. Rome never hesitated to help in a tackle or send a clean outside pass. His consistency and teamwork made him a valuable part of the squad.

🏆John Jnr Williams
A tournament regular who brings dedication year after year. John’s ability to follow instruction and be present in every phase is exciting. He has the foundation of a great player and will thrive under the right mentorship.

🏆Josiah Alofa
Powerful and fearless. Josiah met attackers head-on and put them down with authority. He had several strong runs and showed flashes of the kind of impact he can bring with continued growth.

🏆Ezekiel Littlewood
Energetic and enthusiastic, Ezekiel brought fitness and willingness to contribute. He showed good pace and delivered some clean passes during key moments. With continued confidence and game time, Ezekiel has the potential to grow into a dynamic player.

🏆Kayden McCracken
Kayden showed up, gave his best, and pushed forward despite the challenge. His willingness to learn and be part of the team speaks volumes- a great attitude and a solid starting point.

🏆Boston McCarthy
Boston found his footing and treated each game as a chance to dig deeper. He grew with every match, showcasing resilience, effort, and a want to improve. A player who embraced the challenge and rose to it.

🏆Chad Anderson
Big heart, even bigger drive. Chad gave his all whenever asked -no matter the task. His commitment and willingness to step up made him a valued teammate and a joy to coach.

🏆Jacob Turner
A player with strong foundations and a readiness to be challenged. Jacob is a passionate contributor who showed he has the right stuff -determined, and ready to take the next step.

🏆Jacque Emery-TeKani
Has a whānau instilling the right things, impactful, respectful, and dutiful. Jacque is fit, hardworking, and fearless in front of any attacker. She thrives in structured environments and is set up to succeed in any team she joins.

🏆TeMana Luke-Nathan
TeMana has all the right ingredients for a great league player. With guidance and time, his strength and courage will evolve into something incredible. A promising athlete with a powerful presence.

🏆Tia-Acacia Harvey
A late addition and an absolute shining light on the field. Tia-Acacia was engaged, dynamic, and unafraid with ball in hand. Her defensive strength helped shut down sideline attacks. An exciting future lies ahead.

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🏆Brodie Hohaia Johnston
A natural leader whose actions always matched his expectations. As Co-Captain, Brodie was present, accountable, and deeply connected to our kaupapa. On the field, he was supportive and empowering; off the field, just as impactful. His skill, leadership, and passion for the game made him a cornerstone of this team.

🏆Kohana Kauika Rameka
A strong and disciplined leader. As Co-Captain, Kohana drew on lessons from key coaches to instil respect and structure within the team. Her love for league is undeniable -fearless in contact, powerful in play, and grounded in heart. A no-nonsense powerhouse with unwavering mana.

🏆Alaric Watts
The workhorse of the team. Reliable, consistent, and always ready. Alaric’s presence beside you on the field is reassuring -skilled, steady, and eager to learn. He brings quiet strength and a deep commitment to every moment of the game.

🏆Keegan Johnson
Confident and talented, Keegan is a well-rounded player with sound tackle technique and explosive runs. His physicality and game sense make him a valuable asset to any starting lineup. He plays with presence and precision.

🏆Cruze Kerr
Dynamic and exciting with ball in hand. Cruze is a tactician -sharp in starting plays and just as quick to shut down opposition attacks. His potential is immense, and his evolving skill set will have coaches lining up to develop him further.

🏆Carter Hewlett
Agility and heart in perfect balance. As the smallest player on the team, Carter never backed down -defending when others hesitated. His speed, courage, and determination created magic on the field. A true example of grit and grace. A joy for any coach.

🏆Jordan Sara
A talented fullback with a calm and calculated style. Jordan reads the game well -always under the high ball, placing kicks with precision, and slipping through defensive lines with ease. His skill set is exciting and undeniable.

🏆Sonny Pickett-Hemi
Lightning on legs. Sonny’s agility earns metres, while his aggressive defence shuts down opponents. If you don’t stop him early, he’ll goosey his way down the field. Fast, fierce, and fearless.

🏆Sione Pukeroa
The quiet powerhouse. Sione may not yet see the full extent of his strength, but it’s there -in every line break, every tackle, every shoulder charge. He has the potential to be great and a good foundation to build on.

🏆Tawhero Luke-Nathan
A late addition who quickly proved his worth. Tawhero adapted fast, standing tall alongside seasoned players. Strong with ball in hand, supportive in defence, and always ready to run a play -a true diamond in the rough.

🏆Indii P**i
A multi-code gem who transitioned seamlessly into league. Indii started quiet and shy, but finished the tournament at the centre of the action. A controlled and accurate wing defender, purposeful on attack, and surprisingly sharp with her kicking game.

🏆Ethan Burton
The embodiment of commitment. Ethan took every lesson to heart and threw himself into the deep end. His growth this season was immense -every metre gained, every tackle made, every touch of the ball was earned through mahi and determination.

🏆Brodie Lunt
A player who discovered his own potential. Once quiet and unsure, Brodie grew into a strong, confident presence. His runs were solid, but his defence was even more impressive. With time and belief, he’s one to watch.

🏆Jethro Schouten
The gap-finder. Jethro was never afraid to grab the ball and go -slipping through markers with speed and instinct. As a latecomer, he adapted quickly and met every challenge head-on. A bold and exciting player.

🏆Kahn Reddish
An early injury may have limited his time on the field, but Kahn’s raw talent was undeniable. Fast, agile, and sharp with ball in hand, he showed flashes of brilliance every time he stepped up. His natural athleticism and instinctive play made it clear. With more time to refine his game and learn the structures, Kahn will be a force to reckon with.

🏆Tangaroa Ross
Strength and heart personified. Tangaroa’s greatest achievement was discovering his range -more than just a battering ram, he added finesse with steps and draw-and-pass plays. A gentle giant with a powerful game.

🏆Troy Costain
A committed and dedicated player. Troy never missed a training, always eager to learn and improve. His consistency, attitude, and hunger for growth showcased his respect for the kaupapa. Troy showed up, gave his best, and continued to grow -and that is something to be proud of.

16/10/2025

🏅 Hauraki Māori Rugby League Team Awards
Honouring the spirit, skill, and heart of our players

Prizegiving Acknowledgement-

This year, we made the decision to hold our Prizegiving immediately following our final game on Sunday. While it may seem like a simple conclusion to the weekend, it is, without a doubt, one of the most challenging moments for our coaches and managers.
The level of skill, commitment, and heart shown by our players across two massive days of league - and the many weeks of training leading up to it - made the selection process incredibly difficult. Every tackle, every try, every moment of growth was considered. Our coaches went back and forth, reflecting deeply on each player’s journey, contribution, and impact.
Prizegiving is not just about trophies - it’s about honouring the unseen mahi, the quiet leadership, the breakthroughs, and the resilience. Every player gave something special to this kaupapa, and we acknowledge that with immense pride.

Ika a Whiro Tama – MVP Tama (Most Valuable Male Player)
Awarded to the male player who consistently demonstrated outstanding performance, leadership, and impact throughout the season. He is the warrior who leads by example - showing skill, strength, and commitment in every game. The Ika a Whiro Tama is not just a standout athlete, but a dependable teammate who elevates those around him.

Ika a Whiro Kotiro – MVP Kotiro (Most Valuable Female Player)
Awarded to the female player who exemplified excellence on and off the field. She is the embodiment of resilience, talent, and leadership. The Ika a Whiro Kotiro is a kotiro who plays with heart, supports her team, and consistently delivers performances that inspire and uplift.

Ihuoneone – Most Improved Player
This award recognises a player who has shown significant growth over the season - in skill, confidence, and contribution. Whether through hard work, perseverance, or a breakthrough moment, the Ihuoneone recipient has risen from the sand to stand tall. Their journey reflects dedication and the power of progress.

Kaitautoko – Greatest Supporter
Awarded to the player who consistently uplifted their teammates through encouragement, positivity, and unwavering support. The Kaitautoko is the one who cheers the loudest, backs others in tough moments, and brings unity to the team. They may not always be in the spotlight, but their presence strengthens the kaupapa and reminds us that support is a powerful form of leadership.

Marutuna – Tamaiti Ngākau Nui Ana (Child with Great Heart)
This award celebrates a tamaiti whose passion, spirit, and love for the game shine through in everything they do. The Marutuna recipient plays with joy, trains with purpose, and brings warmth to the team environment. They are the heart of the team - always giving their best and lifting others with their energy.

Maruwehi - Inspiring Player
Awarded to a player who inspires through action, attitude, and presence. The Maruwehi recipient may not always be the loudest or most visible, but their courage, determination, and mana leave a lasting impression. They remind us what it means to play with purpose and to lead with integrity.

Hikareia - Hot Stepper
This award goes to the player whose footwork, agility, and flair lit up the field. The Hikareia is the one who dances past defenders, creates space, and brings excitement to every play. Their movement is electric, their style unforgettable - a true entertainer with substance.

Volunteer Award – Kaitūao o te Tau
This award recognises the unwavering dedication of a whānau member who has gone above and beyond to support the team in every way possible.

From setting up tables and preparing spaces, to helping keep our tamariki safe, focused, and together - this person is always there. Whether it’s guiding haka practice, offering a ride, or simply being a steady presence on the sideline, their contribution is felt in every corner of our kaupapa.

The Volunteer Award honours those who give their time, energy, and heart without expectation of recognition. Their support is the glue that holds us together, and their presence is a reminder that success is never achieved alone.

To our Kaitūao o te Tau - thank you for standing with us, lifting us, and helping our tamariki thrive.

16/10/2025

🏆 Hauraki Māori Rugby League Awards
Celebrating Excellence, Leadership, and Legacy

🏆Henry Wickliffe Award – Danielle Dudson & TeKoha Kauika-Rameka
This year, the Henry Wickliffe Award honours two individuals whose contributions have strengthened the very foundations of our kaupapa.

📋Danielle Dudson is an administrator’s dream -a quiet force who moves with intention and heart. She steps into any space that needs support, identifies what’s missing, and creates magic. Her commitment to Hauraki Māori Rugby League spans years and multiple tournaments, and this season she took on several roles to uphold the integrity and mana of our organisation. Her presence is felt in every detail, every decision, and every moment of care. We thank you, Danielle, for your unwavering dedication and the legacy you continue to build.

🛑TeKoha Kauika-Rameka has journeyed from player to referee, becoming the youngest official in our U10 and U11 space. Volunteering his time and energy, TeKoha ensured our tamariki could play -a role often overlooked, yet absolutely vital. Refereeing multiple games, including U12, he brought professionalism, calm, and strength to the field. In a space that can be thankless, TeKoha stood tall. We honour you for doing one of the most important jobs in sport, and for doing it with pride.

🪨Te Toka Tū Moana Award -Alaric Watts
This season, we introduced the Te Toka Tū Moana Award to honour a player whose quiet strength and relentless mahi have anchored our kaupapa.

Alaric has been part of Hauraki Māori Rugby League for several years, using this pathway to grow, learn, and elevate. His commitment has never wavered. He doesn’t seek the spotlight -instead, he works tirelessly behind the scenes, holding the team together with grit, humility, and heart.

His contribution this season was so profound, it inspired the creation of this award. He was the unmovable force - the silent strength who supported others, lifted the collective, and embodied what it means to be a true team player.

Not all players stand at the front. Some stand firm at the back, making sure everything holds. Alaric is that rock -dependable, grounded, and essential.

Te Toka Tū Moana recognises those who carry the weight without complaint, who lead through action, and who remind us that greatness is often quiet.

🏆Player of the Tournament - Keegan Johnson, Manaaki Wihongi-Timothy & Keylan Taogaga
For the first time, this prestigious award was shared between three exceptional players -each embodying the spirit of our game in their own unique way.

⚡️Keegan Johnson, our U12 Tuakana, brought on-field dominance. His powerful runs, crucial defence, and relentless pressure anchored his team through the toughest moments. But it wasn’t just his physicality -it was the way he commanded the field. His presence was magnetic, drawing strength from his teammates and setting the tone for every match. Keegan led with intensity, focus, and an unshakable drive that lifted the entire team. He was awarded for the presence he brought -a commanding force who led by example and left a lasting imprint on every game.

🫶Manaaki Wihongi-Timothy is everything we hope our players will be. A natural leader, thoughtful, kind, and fair. On the field, he is a warrior -drawing strength from challenge, standing firm when the wero is laid. Always at the forefront of the haka, he carries mana in every movement. Off the field, he is gracious, respectful, and inclusive -creating space for others to be their authentic selves.

⛰️Keylan Taogaga is a powerhouse of energy and discipline. His offensive skill and defensive confidence reflect a player well beyond his years. On the field, he is immovable -a mountain of strength and resolve. His respect for the haka was visible and unwavering. Off the field, he was kind, funny, and loyal to his people -forging friendships and leaving behind a legacy of connection and pride.

Kaihaka Award - Kohana, Brodie & Cruze
This year’s Kaihaka Award was shared by three fierce tamariki who carried the heartbeat of our haka.

🩷🖤Kohana and Brodie led from the very beginning -guiding their teina through actions and kupu, then stepping up to lead the U12 team in intense haka training. Their leadership was powerful, their commitment inspiring. They showed what can be built when rangatahi are given space to lead.

️📈Cruze joined them as Kaea, and from the very first haka, he elevated the mauri of the group. His pride in leading roared across the field, lifting his peers to new heights of confidence and unity. Together, these three created something unforgettable - a haka that wasn’t just performed, but lived.

To all our recipients -your contributions, your courage, and your commitment have shaped this season. You are the heartbeat of Hauraki Māori Rugby League.

16/10/2025

🗣️ Kaihaka Awards -Hauraki Māori Rugby League
Ko te haka, ko te manawa. Ko te tamaiti, ko te toa.

This year, we honour three fierce tamariki whose presence in our haka was undeniable. They didn’t just perform - they led, they inspired, and they ignited the wairua of our roopu.

From the very first lesson, Kohana and Brodie stepped forward with strength and clarity. Their leadership was natural, their guidance unwavering. They lifted their teina with patience and pride, ensuring every voice, every action, every beat of the haka was felt.

Cruze joined them, and together they elevated the mauri of our haka. His intensity, precision, and presence brought depth to every movement and meaning to every word. Alongside Kohana and Brodie, he helped transform the haka into something unforgettable- a living, breathing force of unity and pride.

These three tamariki embodied the essence of a kaihaka:
-Fierce in delivery
-Grounded in purpose
-Connected in spirit

They carried the haka not just in their voices, but in their hearts. And through them, our roopu stood taller, prouder, and stronger.

Kohana Kauika-Rameka, Brodie Hohaia-Johnston and Cruze Kerr
- your mana moved us. Your leadership lifted us. You are our Kaihaka.

16/10/2025

🪨 Te Toka Tū Moana – Hauraki Māori Rugby League Award
A steadfast rock in turbulent waters.

This year, we introduce a new honour:
Te Toka Tū Moana -an award inspired by a tama whose presence has been nothing short of extraordinary.

He has been a constant force. Reliable. Undeniable. Powerful. Like a rock standing firm against the tides, he has anchored his team with quiet strength and unwavering commitment. Week after week, he showed up - not for recognition, but because that’s who he is. Solid. Grounded. Unshakeable.

This award acknowledges the players who are the foundation of their teams. They may not always be the loudest or flashiest, but their impact is felt in every huddle, every tackle, every moment of challenge. They are the ones who hold the line, lift others, and carry the weight when it matters most.

Te Toka Tū Moana is more than a title, more than an award - it’s a tribute to resilience, loyalty, and the kind of leadership that doesn’t need words.

Proudly awarded to the young tama who inspired this award:
Alaric Watts

16/10/2025

🟥 Ika a Whiro - Hauraki Māori Rugby League MVPs -
He ika a whiro, he toa, he ngākau nui.

We proudly celebrate our Ika a Whiro -the player who, stood out, and carried the spirit of the game with pride. These players are our Most Valuable Players, recognised not only for their talent on the field, but for the way they upheld everything we value.

🔥 Individual Brilliance
Some of our Ika a Whiro showcased outstanding skill -explosive speed, fearless defence, and game-changing vision. Others stood out through their unwavering commitment, deep respect, and the way they embodied our kaupapa in every moment.

🌿 What Made Them Stand Out
-They showed up with consistency and purpose
-They gave their all in every game and training
-They respected their teammates, coaches, and the kaupapa
-They led through action, humility, and heart

These players reminded us that being an MVP isn’t just about performance - it’s about how you carry yourself, how you honour the jersey, and how you live the values we stand for.

To our Ika a Whiro - you are the standard, the spirit, and the strength of our roopu.

16/10/2025

🏆 Hauraki Māori Rugby League -Team of the Year- U10s
Tū tangata, tū kaha, tū kotahi.

This season, our Hauraki Māori Rugby League U10s didn’t just play the game -they embodied the spirit of it. From the first training to the final whistle, these tamariki showed what it means to be committed, connected, and courageous.

Week after week, they turned up with determination in their hearts and boots on the ground. They trained hard, supported one another, and built friendships that will last far beyond the season. When tournament time came, they had each other’s backs -every tackle, every try, every moment.

But what truly set them apart was their mana off the field. They stood proudly on the sidelines, chanting words of encouragement to their U11 tuakana, lifting other teams with their energy and aroha. Their whakawhanaungatanga was undeniable -a reflection of the guidance and inspiration poured into them by their coaches and whānau.

This team didn’t just play rugby league. They lived it. They breathed it. They honoured it.

To our U10s -you are our Team of the Year. You’ve shown us what unity looks like. What leadership feels like. What Hauraki Māori pride truly means.

He toa takitini, he toa rangatira.
A champion team, not just a team of champions.

29/09/2025

Hauraki Māori Rugby League – Our Players, Our Pride, e tū Hauraki

We celebrate the wins. We acknowledge the losses. And above all, we honour the opportunity to stand among the best at the Aotearoa New Zealand Rugby League tamariki tournament.

Across the weekend, the skill on display was nothing short of inspiring -fast-paced, physical, and full of flair. Among it all, Hauraki stood tall, with moments of brilliance that reminded us of the depth of talent we hold right here in our rohe.

From the youngest tamariki to our seasoned rangatira, we saw players who ran hard, tackled harder, and gave everything for their team. There were standouts, yes; but more importantly, there was heart.

Ngā mihi nui to every player, coach, whānau member, and supporter who helped make this kaupapa possible. You’ve helped build something our future players can look up to and aspire toward.

Hauraki Maori Rugby League

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