18/06/2026
Strong partnerships create strong competition.
The Tasman Tanning Te Awa Wahine Competition was built on a shared commitment to growing women’s rugby across our region. Through the collaboration of Whanganui Rugby, Manawatū Rugby, participating clubs, volunteers and competition sponsor Tasman Tanning, players have been provided with a meaningful and competitive platform that continues to strengthen the game. That journey culminates in tonight’s inaugural Tasman Tanning Te Awa Wahine Final.
Tasman Tanning’s support of club rugby throughout Whanganui over the last 20 years has played a significant role in making opportunities like this possible, while the partnership between Whanganui Rugby and Manawatū Rugby demonstrates what can be achieved when unions work together for the benefit of players, clubs and communities.
As we approach tonight’s final, we congratulate Whanganui representatives Byfords Construction Taihape Wahine Toa on securing their place in the decider. Their commitment throughout the season has been exceptional, and they now have the opportunity to compete for the Canterbury–McKay Cup, honouring two pioneers of women’s rugby, including one of Taihape’s own, Ruth McKay.
Following the Tasman Tanning Te Awa Wahine Final, the top local qualifiers from each union will also contest their respective regional finals. For Whanganui, that will see Byfords Construction Taihape Wahine Toa and AGC Marist Clovers meet once again, with local pride and the title of Whanganui Champions on the line.
Women’s rugby continues to go from strength to strength across our region. The success of competitions such as Te Awa Wahine, combined with players progressing to higher honours, highlights the opportunities now available for our wahine. We are incredibly proud to see Whanganui representatives such as Anahera Hamahona and Holly-Rae Mete-Renata continuing to excel on larger stages, including their current Super Rugby Aupiki campaigns.
Best of luck to Byfords Construction Taihape Wahine Toa tonight as they represent Whanganui Rugby on the competition’s biggest stage.
