The addition of a Kerikeri women’s team builds on this momentum, providing more opportunities for female athletes to play the game at a senior level. It also demonstrates the growing demand and enthusiasm for women’s rugby in Northland.
A New Era for Kerikeri Women’s Rugby
The formation of the new Kerikeri senior women’s team has been driven by a passionate group of players, coaches, and supporters who saw the need for a women’s side in their community. Charlise, a player for the team, expressed her excitement for the upcoming season:
“It started small, and now with our coach joining, it’s grown. I’m really excited—we’ve got a great team, and everyone is so supportive.”
The new team aims not only to compete but also to inspire more women and girls to take up rugby. Charlise adds, “The focus is to get new players to develop that passion for rugby and show our young girls that rugby can be for them too.”
Building a Strong Foundation
Heading the team is newly appointed Head Coach, Mario, who has a clear vision for the squad and has worked tirelessly to establish a solid foundation before the first kickoff.
“I took the reins about a month ago. I had a vision and a plan, and the idea was to put the team together before the team. What I wanted to do was make sure we had a strong coaching and management team and structure that would appeal to the ladies. So when they did come to training, they felt valued, and we could teach and educate them.”
Mario, a longtime rugby referee in Northland, recognised the need for a women’s team in Kerikeri, a club that hasn’t fielded a senior women’s side in 25 years.
“I saw a need in our community. I’ve been refereeing rugby for 12 years in Northland, and when it comes to clubs and teams, they can’t operate without a coach. I saw a need to help Kerikeri rugby, who haven’t had a women’s team for 25 years. It was a real privilege and honour to step up to the plate and bring the ladies together in a space where they can enjoy the game and develop their skills.”
As the season approaches, Mario is focused on ensuring the team is ready to compete.
“My core focus as the coach leading up to the rugby season is to do things differently in order to get the results we need to win games.”
Strengthening Northland’s Women’s Rugby Landscape
Kerikeri’s addition to the senior women’s competition further enhances the strength of women’s rugby in Northland. They join an already competitive league, which includes Te Rarawa , Kaikohe , Kerikeri , OBM/ Moerewa, Hora Hora , Onerahi , and Otamatea.
Northland Rugby is committed to fostering the continued growth of women’s rugby in the region. With more players, coaches, and clubs embracing the women’s game, the 2025 season is set to be one of the most competitive and exciting yet.
Cheryl Waaka, Northland Rugby’s Womens Rugby Lead, said “It’s been pleasure working alongside Kerikeri Women’s team and management , the ladies are new but keen to learn. I really look forward to watching the ladies throughout the season. It’s great to get a team out of Kerikeri as it’s an extra pathway for our junior girls in the area”.
With Kerikeri now in the mix, the future of women’s rugby in Northland looks brighter than ever. Players, supporters, and the wider rugby community are eager to see the team take the field and make their mark on the competition.
For more information on women’s rugby in Northland, or to get involved, register to play on rugby xplorer.
