Protecting our Legacy - Secure the future

"In the heart of New South Wales, a story of unity, heritage and sporting excellence unfolds through the Māori Rugby League NSW. This journey began in 1997, sparked by a passionate group of NSW-based Māori and players inspired by the spirit of competition and camaraderie at the Aotearoa New Zealand Māori Rugby League annual tournament. With a vision to weave the rich tapestry of Māori culture into the fabric of NSW rugby league, they formed the Poi Hākena Kotahitanga Māori Rugby League Club in 1999, setting the stage for an unprecedented saga of community, culture, and sportsmanship.

Our story is one of growth, guided by the principles of fair play, inclusivity and the pursuit of excellence. The founding of the Ngā Hau e Whā tournament, embodying the four cardinal points of North, South, East and West, marked a milestone in our journey, bringing together the wider football community under a banner of unity and competitive spirit. This annual event, despite early challenges in governance and registration, blossomed into a beacon of Māori mana, showcasing the extraordinary talents of players from NRL level to A Grade, and forging a deep connection with loyal supporters.

The establishment of New South Wales Māori Rugby Football League in 2004/05 was a pivotal moment, solidifying our place within the broader rugby league community and enabling us to host the cherished Ngā Hau e Whā tournament at venues that have become hallowed grounds for our players and fans. Our commitment to nurturing talent is evident in the thriving Juniors program and the Women’s game, which over the last thirteen years have become fertile ground for developing a diverse talent pool of Wāhine and Tāne, from the grassroots to the elite.

Our reach has extended beyond borders, with tours to New Zealand and welcoming teams from across the Pacific and Australia, enriching our league with a kaleidoscope of cultures and a spirit of international brotherhood. This journey has been supported by a constellation of partners, from NSW Rugby League, Heritage Rugby League, Aotearoa New Zealand Māori Rugby League, local councils, major sponsors and community groups, all contributing to the vibrant festival atmosphere that characterises our game days.

In 2024, we proudly changed our name from NSW Māori Rugby League to Māori Rugby League NSW. This change reflects our deep respect and acknowledgment that this land is not our tangata whenua. We honour the First Nations People of this land and recognise their enduring connection to it. At the heart of our kaupapa is a principle that celebrates our Māori identity while embracing the diversity of our players and supporters. We are committed to upholding Tikanga Māori and fostering a community where everyone, regardless of their background, can come together in the spirit of competition and mutual respect. This name change is a testament to our dedication to inclusivity, respect and the values that unite us all. Through this commitment, we aim to build a stronger, more connected community that honours both our heritage and the rich cultural tapestry of the First Nations People.

Our kaupapa is more than just a sporting association; it is a community that honours its past, celebrates its present and looks forward to a future filled with opportunity for all. It is a place where the kumara does not boast of its sweetness but rather, where the deeds of our players, volunteers and supporters speak volumes. Here, we stand proud as Māori, as rugby league players, and as a testament to the enduring spirit of unity and excellence.

As we look to the horizon, Māori Rugby League NSW continues to be a beacon of hope, opportunity and pride. It is a story woven by many hands, filled with the humility and humbleness that characterise our community. Together, we stand firm in our roots, celebrating the rich mosaic of cultures that make up our community and forever championing the spirit of Tū Māori, Tū Rīki Māori. Mauri ora!"