NRLW players make big impression at Tupu festival

One New Zealand Warriors NRLW players were a big attraction when the Warriors Community Foundation hosted its Tupu Māia festival for more than 200 girls from eight Auckland schools at Go Media Stadium on Tuesday.

It was the first time the club’s NRLW players had been involved with Tupu Māia, the foundation’s girls-only programme for year seven and eight students.

Funded by the Wright Family Foundation, Aktive and ProCare Foundation, the programme focuses on confidence, participation, enjoyment of sport, wellbeing
and keeping physically and mentally active with their peers.

Joining in the fun and activities were Tysha Ikenasio, Laishon Albert-Jones, Makayla Eli, Kalyn Takitimu-Cook, Harata Butler and Kaiyah Atai who have all been signed by the Warriors for their return to the 2025 NRLW following a five-year absence. Also adding support was Sharnyze Pihema – who has been secured on a development deal – along with Warriors head coach Ron Griffiths.

Schools involved were Don Buck Primary School, Northcross Intermediate School, Wairau Intermediate School, Murrays Bay Intermediate School, Holy Cross Catholic School (Henderson), Middle School West Auckland, Pasadena Intermediate School and Blockhouse Bay Intermediate School.

It was the latest of a number of appearances Griffiths and Warriors NRLW players have been making at rugby league events and clubs throughout Auckland.

“Our players and I have been immersing ourselves in the community and working with the local clubs,” said Griffiths.

“I think that’s really important. The next crop of players that come to play for the One New Zealand Warriors NRLW will come internally. No doubt we’re going to have to bring players from Australia but the more we can develop from here, the better we’re going to be long-term.”

Various clubs including Māngere East, Ōtāhuhu, Mount Albert, Ellerslie, Papakura and Richmond have benefited from visits by Griffiths and the players while the coach has also travelled further afield to Tauranga and the Waikato to connect with the game in the regions, watch tournaments and promote the NRLW side.

After a visit in late March, the Richmond club posted on its Instagram account: “A huge thank you to Ron Griffiths, head coach of the NRLW Warriors, and the incredible NRLW players Kaiyah Atai and Laishon Albert-Jones for joining us tonight!

“They took our U16 and U18 Rosebuds through an unforgettable training session filled with energy, skill-building and valuable insights. Our players were inspired by their expertise, commitment and passion for the game.

“It was a fantastic opportunity for the girls to learn – not just the technical skills, but also the mentality and work ethic required to excel in footy.”