New signing Fotu-Moala follows in sisters' footsteps

Tonga international Metanoia Fotu-Moala has become the One New Zealand Warriors’ first signing from local football for the club’s reintroduction to the NRLW next year.

The 25-year-old is the third Fotu-Moala to become a contracted NRLW player following in the footsteps of older sibling Teuila and twin Maatuleio.

Former Kiwi Fern Teulia was a premiership winner with Brisbane in the NRLW’s first season in 2018 before signing with St George Illawarra while Maatuleio has just finished her first campaign in the competition with the Dragons.

An Otahuhu Leopards junior, front rower Noia – as she is widely known – is the Warriors’ 11th signing so far but the first secured out of grass roots rugby league in New Zealand.

“While researching the competition and identifying talent in New Zealand I was watching games in (Auckland Rugby League’s) Steele-Shanks women’s premiership,” said One New Zealand Warriors NRLW head coach Ronald Griffiths.

“Noia was playing for the Otara Scorpions and I was immediately drawn to her explosive hard running.

“I reached out to her organise a catch up and, after a couple of conversations, I knew she would be an exceptional fit for the culture we are building and the style of game we want to play.

“I’ve also had the opportunity to continue to watch Noia play representative football with the Auckland Vulcans where she has impressed.

“We have signed players who have left New Zealand to play domestically in Australia and ultimately the NRLW so Noia’s signing from grassroots competition in Tāmaki Makaurau is of immense significance for the One New Zealand Warriors. Furthermore, it will be a consequential one in the history of our club.”

A McAuley High School product, Fotu-Moala’s rugby league career began with Otahuhu after her high school days while she has followed with stints for the Ponsonby Ponies and the Otara Scorpions.

Signed by the Warriors for 2025, 2026 (club option) and 2027 (mutual option), she has represented Tonga while she has played for the Counties-Manukau Stingrays and the Auckland Vulcans in the New Zealand Rugby League’s women’s premiership.

Of the first 10 players the Warriors have signed, eight have NRLW experience while two have been secured from rugby union.

Along with Fotu-Moala, the Warriors have locked in Apii Nicholls, Mya Hill-Moana, Harata Butler, Capri Paekau, Laishon Albert-Jones, Emmanita Paki, Lavinia Tauhalaliku, Matekino Gray, Shakira Baker and Tyra Wetere.

Metanoia Fotu-Moala

“Ronald reached out through Messenger wanting to chat about my future in footy.
“My initial conversation with him was heartwarming because he focused on getting to know me as a person first, rather than just seeing me as a player, which I really appreciated.
“From that very first phone call we built a sense of transparency and trust. After just two calls, I felt such a strong connection that I even invited him to my wedding; it really shows how much I value the relationship we are building.
“Once I signed my contract, I took a moment to sit quietly and offered a prayer of gratitude. My reaction to being signed by the Warriors is one of great honour, as I am the first woman to be signed from within grassroots footy here in Tāmaki Makaurau. I'm incredibly thankful to Ronald for taking the time to recognise the talent we have in our backyard because the potential here is immense.
“I couldn't help but share the news with my parents, partner and my siblings. When my Dad heard about it, his reaction was priceless. He wrapped me in the biggest hug, lifting my feet off the floor. He was so proud and said: ‘I can finally say that three of my daughters have played in the NRLW.’ He also added with a grin: ‘Save the best for last ay Noia?’ And I couldn't help but agree with him on that one!
“This signing means so much to me as a testament to how playing grassroots footy in Tāmaki Makaurau can lead to opportunities in the NRLW, even when doubts about pathways exist.
“I hope to inspire the next generation of girls playing footy by showing them they don’t have to leave the country to be noticed. With increasing recognition of local talent, they can pursue their dreams without feeling the need to go overseas.
“The Warriors’ return elevates the league and demonstrates a clear pathway for young athletes, making it a significant step forward for women’s rugby league in New Zealand!”