Māori Rugby League NSW Tournament

Our annual Māori Rugby League NSW Tournament, traditionally held during the NRL Grand Final Weekend is a distinguished event. It is a cornerstone of our kaupapa, honouring the rich heritage and competitive spirit of our community.

Established in 2005 as Nga Hau E Whā, meaning "The Four Winds," this tournament symbolises the coming together of players, coaches, trainers and supporters from all directions. Over the years, it has become a proud fixture in New South Wales, celebrating the illustrious history of Māori rugby league.

Recognising the evolving needs of our community and the necessity to reconnect and strengthen our bonds, we are dedicated to creating space to rebuild our community both on and off the field. We recognise our role as a leader and facilitator of gatherings, committed to fostering unity and support. To this end, we are introducing a tournament under our new name. This interim event serves as a crucial step towards our ultimate goal: the reinvigoration of a full-scale Nga Hau E Whā Tournament, embracing the spirit and tradition that have defined us for decades.

Our Māori Rugby League NSW Tournament serves to:

• Honour Our Origins: We create a space that pays homage to the legacy of Nga Hau e Whā.

• Reconnect and Grow: This event provides a vital opportunity to reconnect and strengthen our community bonds.

• Revitalise Traditions: Building on the solid foundations established through the dedicated efforts of our komiti members over the years, our capacity to develop quality programs and pathways has significantly expanded from the humble beginnings of the initial Open Tane competition. With a shared vision, we aspire to revitalise the Nga Hau e Whā Tournament to include Kootiro and Tama in U15, U16, U18, Open Wāhine, Open Tāne and Masters divisions over the coming years. We believe that the re-establishment of the Nga Hau e Whā Tournament will be a landmark achievement for Māori rugby league in NSW, delivering substantial benefits to our community as a whole.

Each year, this event offers a premier platform for participants of Māori heritage from across New South Wales to showcase their skills, build camaraderie and uphold our cultural traditions. Being selected to participate is a significant honour, providing the chance to compete for a place in our Harmony 9s and Heritage Representative squads and to contribute to the storied legacy of our kaupapa.

The Māori Rugby League NSW Tournament transcends mere competition; it stands as a testament to our resilience, heritage and unwavering commitment to fostering community spirit. The event has evolved into a symbol of unity and pride, highlighting the exceptional skills and sportsmanship of our players across all age groups and categories.

Our tournament is a vibrant celebration of rugby league, bringing together not only players but also coaches, volunteers, supporters and whānau. It embodies our principles of whanaungatanga (community), manākitanga (hospitality) and kaitiakitanga (stewardship), creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued.

By participating in the Māori Rugby League NSW Tournament, you join a legacy that honours our past, celebrates our present and looks toward a bright future. We invite you to be part of this annual celebration of excellence, heritage and unity, and to contribute to a thriving and growing community. Together, let us make history and elevate Māori rugby league to new heights.