Wellington Pride Media Guide 2025

CONTENTS CEO MESSAGE 3 HISTORIC TIMELINE

4

2024 SEASON LADDER

5

2024 SEASON STATS

6

2024 SEASON TRIES & POINTS

7

2025 OUTLOOK 7 2025 SCHEDULE 8 PLAYER PROFILES 9 MANAGEMENT

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OUR PARTNERS

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2

CEO MESSAGE Kia ora Pride Whānau A heartfelt thank you from all of us at Wellington Rugby to our dedicated members and partners for your ongoing support.

The women’s game in Wellington continues to grow exponentially, and WRFU remains fully committed to supporting the development of female rugby. The Pride are seasoned battlers who consistently demonstrate a passion for nurturing talent and inspiring the next generation.

They are eager for more opportunities to engage with the community and in-crease their visibility.

As we build on the progress made last season, your support remains a vital part of the Pride’s journey, now focused on winning the Championship and securing promotion to the Premiership Division.

WRFU is also proud to be represented on the world stage by exceptional local talent.

Ayesha Leti-I’iga will once again don the black jersey as part of the Black Ferns squad for the Rugby World Cup in England. Joining her, Fa’alua Tugaga, Fa’asua Makisi, Nina Foaese, and Sinead Ryder have been selected to represent Manusina.

We also acknowledge Keira Su’a Smith, who travelled with the Black Ferns XV to South Africa for a two-match series against the Springbok Women.

These selections are a testament to the incredible depth of talent within our region. We are both proud and grateful to see our players competing at the highest level.

Thank you once again for your unwavering support. We look forward to sharing another exciting campaign with you in 2025, united as part of our proud rugby whānau.

- Tony Giles, WRFU CEO

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4

2024 SEASON LADDER Pts P W D L B

1

Manawatū

25

5

5

0 0 5 214

Manawatū

72

2 Wellington

21

5

4

0 1

North Harbour

0

3 Otago

15

5

3

0 2 3 -20

4 North Harbour

11

5

2

0 3 3

5 Tasman

7

5

1

0 4 3 -122

6 Taranaki

2

5

0

0 5 2 -222

5

PD

SEMI FINALS - 14 September, 2024

# TEAM

115 35

Wellington 38 Otago 51 FINAL - 22 September, 2024

Manawatū

33

Otago 3

Left to right: Lourdes Faifua, Sanita Levave, Codec CEO Alan Moore, and Jackie Patea-Fereti.

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6

2024 TRIES & POINTS TOP TRY SCORERS

TOP POINT SCORERS

PLAYER

TRIES

PLAYER

T C P DG Pts

Harmony Kautai

7

Milly Mackey

4 10 -

-

40

Drenna Falaniko

5

Harmony Kautai

7

- -

-

35

Shakira Baker

4

Drenna Falaniko

5

- -

-

25

Milly Mackey

4

Arene Landon-Lane

-

11 -

-

22

2025 OUTLOOK INS Emerald Tuhiwai-Polson Mele Kupa-Cummings Nahliah Tagatauli-Tolova’a Baylee Meroiti Brooke Jones Canon Hakaraia Dora Laupola Faythe Finau Fono Bason Jessica Jackson Keiana Roffey Lourdes Faifua Madison Gold

OUTS Nia Sutherland Roimata Parata Sanita Levave Te Arani Te Puni Tia Brown Xanthe Somerville

Alicia Print Billie Va’a Drenna Falaniko Eva Maora Fanua Rimoni Harmony Kinloch Joanah Ngan-Woo Monica Tagoai Shakira Baker Sophia Ropeti Sophie Irving Te Raukura Leafe Tess Woldring

BLACK FERNS

BLACK FERNS XV

Ayesha Leti‑I’iga

Keira Su’a‑Smith

MANUSINA Fa’alua Tugaga Fa’asua Makisi Nina Foaese Sinead Ryder

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PLAYER PROFILES

ANGELICA SCHWENCKE

Angelica’s passion for rugby was ignited in a local U13 all-girls team, playing against Wainuiomata, marking the start of a journey that hasn’t slowed down since. Representing Avalon and more recently, Petone, and having attended Sacred Heart College, Angelica proudly played for the Manusina, most recently appearing at the 2024 WXV Tournament in Dubai. Her proudest achievement to date is winning the Rebecca Liua’ana Cup in 2025, a first for her and a milestone in her club career. Known for her high rugby IQ and a deep understanding of her core role on the field, she approaches the game with commitment, strategy and purpose. For Angelica, Wellington is more than a place, it’s where her roots, family and identity lie. Inspired by the people around her and guided by the principle of never underestimating the power of showing up, she aims to make every environment she steps into a safe and welcoming space. With old-school R&B in her ears and a quiet prayer before kickoff, she continues to build a legacy grounded in heart, grit and community.

Prop

Debut: Auckland, 2016

DOB: 18/01/1996

Caps: 43

Club: Petone Ht: 170cm

Anyis, raised in Porirua, began her rugby journey down at Onepoto Park, with her Under 8 team, where her love for the game first took place. Coming through the Northern United and attending both St Mary’s College and MANUKURA, she earned the opportunity to travel to Japan for school sevens, competing against some of the best young talent in the world. A hardworking, versatile and coachable player, Anyis is known for her reliability around the set piece, her sharp instincts for key moments, especially ball steals, and her drive to execute her core roles with precision. Her greatest asset is her ANYIS relentless work rate and ability to fight to the final whistle, always DROSSAERTS LAKE giving 100%, no matter the challenge. Rugby, for her, grew naturally, drawn in by the energy, the physicality, and the bond of the team, it became something she loves and is determined to keep improving in. Porirua isn’t just where she lives; it’s the foundation of her growth, both as a person and as a player, a community that allows her to fail, succeed and rise through it all. Guided by a mindset of respect, coachability and a willingness to learn, she pushes herself beyond limits for her teammates, knowing they’re all on different journeys but share the same passion for the game. around her and guided by the principle of never underestimating the power of showing up, she aims to make every environment she steps into a safe and welcoming space.

With old-school R&B in her ears and a quiet prayer before kickoff, she continues to build a legacy grounded in heart, grit and community.

Loose Forward

Debut: Tasman, 2024

Club: Northern United

DOB: 24/06/2006

Caps: 5

Ht: 163cm

9

ARENE LANDON-LANE

Arene was born in Blenheim but moved to Porirua at the age of three and has called it home ever since. Introduced to rugby at just four years old through Northern United, where her dad entered her in the nursery grade and coached her through her junior years, she’s never looked back. A proud St Mary’s College alum, Arene’s rugby career has already seen her represent the U18 New Zealand Sevens and Māori teams, as well as the Junior White Sox in softball. In 2025, she received the call-up to join Hurricanes Poua, an achievement that came after narrowly missing initial selection, proving her determination and refusal to give up on her goals. On the field, Arene is a smart, dynamic player known for her ability to breach defensive lines and use her strong kicking game to manage pressure and gain territory. Her deep knowledge of the game and precision kicking are her standout strengths. For Arene, Porirua is more than a place, it’s where her family is, where she grew up and where her passion for rugby was born. She values the lifelong connections she’s made with players, coaches, and teams along the way.

Inside Back

Debut: Canterbury, 2022

DOB: 21/08/2004

BAYLEE MEROITI

Ht: 172cm

Baylee, proudly from Porirua, began her rugby journey with the Norths Bloodhounds in 2018 and her athletic talent has seen her recently compete at the Central Regions 7s Tournament, gain selection into the Wellington Rugby Women’s Academy and attend the NZ U18 North vs South Camp. A multi-sport athlete, she’s also excelled in netball, earning selection for the NZSS Netball squad, and played a key role in her cricket team’s national championship win. Known for her exceptional speed and accurate passing, Baylee brings a dynamic presence to the field, blending athleticism with sharp decision-making.

Inspired by her Koro Gary, whose love for rugby has always motivated her, Baylee values the friendships she’s built through sport and the connection it creates.

Inside Back

Debut: Debutant

DOB: 16/06/2007

BROOKE JONES

Caps: 11

Club: Northern United

Caps:

Club: Northern United Ht: 172cm

Brooke, from Porirua, began her rugby journey in 2015 with Northern United and has proudly represented the club ever since. A student at Scots College, she was recently selected for the NZ Condors 7s team that travelled to France, an opportunity that marked an exciting milestone in her sporting career. Brooke has also competed at a national level in rugby league, earning a spot in the NZ U16s squad.

Known for her physicality and powerful ball-carrying, she brings a fearless, determined energy to every game. Inspired by her older brother, whose love for the game motivated her to give it a go, Brooke has grown to love the competitive and physical side of rugby. For her, playing means more than just sport, it’s about representing the family, friends, and community who’ve supported her journey.

Outside Back DOB: 5/03/2009

Debut: Debutant Caps:

Club: Northern United Ht: 172cm

10

CANON HAKARAIA

Canon, born and raised in Wainuiomata, began his rugby journey at the age of nine with the Wainuiomata Rugby Football Club, inspired by her family’s strong involvement in the local club. She attended Sacred Heart College in Lower Hutt and progressed through the Wellington age-grade system, earning selection in representative teams such as Wellington Under 18 Girls and the Wellington Pride Development squad. Known for her physicality, high work rate, and strong tackling and jackling skills, Canon is committed to improving despite still being young and eager to learn. Rugby has given her the opportunity to meet new people, develop her game each year and proudly wear different jerseys throughout her career.

Loose Forward

Debut: Debutant

DOB: 28/01/2007

DORA LAUPOLA

Ht: 160cm

Dora, originally from Porirua and a former student at Aotea College, proudly represented Samoa by singing the national anthem as part of the Manusina team in 2024. Growing up around rugby with her older brothers, it was natural for her to develop a strong connection to the sport. For Dora, rugby has always been more than just a game, it represents a deep sense of belonging and community. Inspired by her mum and guided by faith, she would whisper the Bible verse Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” before every kickoff. Known for her physicality on the field, Dora treasures the blessing of playing rugby and the meaningful connections it has brought her.

Prop

Debut: 2018

DOB: 18/10/1998

EMERALD TUHIWAI-POLSON

Caps:

Club: Wainuiomata

Caps: 20

Club: Northern United Ht: 178cm

Emerald, recently relocating to Wellington from Feilding High School and now attending St Mary’s College, has quickly made her mark in the capital’s rugby scene. In her first season with Petone, she helped secure both the 2025 Rebecca Liua’ana Cup and the Tia Paasi Memorial Trophy. A standout representative player, Emerald has worn the black jersey for the NZ Māori U18 Ngā Māreikura team and recently competed in the NZ U18 North vs South match. What sets her apart isn’t just her talent, it’s her adaptability. Wise beyond her years, Emerald brings maturity to every environment she steps into, soaking up knowledge like a sponge and applying it with intent. Whether it’s adjusting to new systems, reading the game, or connecting with teammates, she does so with a hunger to grow.

Outside Back

Debut: Debutant

DOB: 5/03/2008

Caps:

Club: Petone Ht: 170cm

11

FAYTHE FINAU

Faythe, born and raised in Cannons Creek, Porirua, began playing rugby in Year 9 while attending Tawa College. She has made significant strides in her rugby career, including selection for the 2025 Pride squad and participation in the U18 Wellington Hurricanes tournament in 2023. Beyond rugby, Faythe is a decorated powerlifting champion, holding titles such as Porirua Powerlifting Strongwoman Champion for 2021 and 2022, and multiple secondary school and overall female lifter championships. Known for her strength and scrummaging skills, Faythe is deeply motivated by her family, especially her dad, whose rugby legacy and influence inspired her passion for the sport. Her approach to rugby is driven by determination, motivation and physical dominance.

Prop

Debut: Debutant

DOB: 14/06/2005

FONO BASON

Ht: 170cm

Fono grew up in Marton, a small rural town between Palmerston North and Whanganui, and originally played netball before switching to rugby at Under 13s, having played Under 8s with Freyberg Old Boys and later with Feilding. She attends St Mary’s College in Wellington and achieved a major milestone by winning the Tia Paasi Memorial Trophy in 2025 with Petone. Fono has also represented the Central Storm at the Global Youth 7s in 2024, where they were the only non-international team to reach the top four, and she played rugby league for the U14 Hakula Tonga team. Known for her physicality and communication skills, Fono views Wellington as home, appreciating the sisterhood and family she’s found there. Inspired by her family, especially her parents and siblings who have shown discipline, hard work and love for rugby despite challenges, she emphasises the importance of staying content and focused on growth, even when things aren’t perfect.

Loose Forward

Debut: Debutant

DOB: 10/05/2009

HARMONY KAUTAI

Caps:

Club: Northern United

Caps:

Club: Petone Ht: 170cm

Harmony, originally from Flaxmere in Hastings, Hawke’s Bay, began playing rugby around age 7 or 8 with the Flaxmere Tigers. She played junior rugby there before attending Karamu High School in Year 9 and 10, then finished her senior years at Hastings Girls High School. Harmony has proudly represented the Hurricanes Poua for two seasons and played for the Black Ferns XV, with her best performances still ahead. Known for her physicality and exciting style of play, especially in attack, she considers Wellington her home because it’s where her rugby journey took off and where her partner is from. Inspired by her dad, Harmony plays with purpose and cherishes moments playing in front of her family.

Outside Back

Debut: Canterbury, 2023

DOB: 8/05/2004

Caps: 12

Club: Petone Ht: 175cm

12

IVANA SAMANI

Ivana developed her rugby skills through St Mary’s College Wellington’s 7s team, transitioning from a background in touch rugby. She has also been part of the MANUKURA program and proudly represents her family by having previously represented Manusina, and more recently her club, Ories, with strong family support. Ivana has contributed to a successful St Mary’s College 7s and 15s program that has achieved Condors and Top 4 honours and she has represented New Zealand in touch rugby at younger age grades. Her strengths lie in support play, communication and confidence to finish, with speed and evasion as her key on-field assets. For Ivana, rugby is about representing her hometown, club and family, guided by values of integrity, hard work and teamwork both on and off the field. She thrives on competition and cherishes the connections and support from teammates and loved ones.

Outside Back

Debut: Auckland, 2022

DOB: 19/12/2001

JACKIE PATEA-FERETI

Caps: 11

Ht: 178cm

Jackie, from Wainuiomata, began playing for the Avalon Women’s team as a fill-in player while attending Wainuiomata High School.

Inspired by her older cousin Wingz, who encouraged her to join for the love of sport and to help the team, Jackie also looks up to local rugby heroes like Tana Umaga, Piri Weepu and Neemia Tialata. For her, rugby is about serving others by sharing what she’s learned over the years and helping elevate her teammates through support and advice.

She values her family’s sacrifice, her parents migrated for a better life, stepping out of their comfort zone to provide opportunities she cherishes. Known for being unpredictable on the field, especially with her kicks, Jackie believes being coachable and working hard when no one is watching are key to success. Her motivation is rooted in “aiga” (family), and she enjoys listening to slow jams or gospel music to stay grounded.

Loose Forward

Debut: Otago, 2006

DOB: 30/09/1986

JESSICA JACKSON

Club: Oriental Rongotai

Caps: 85

Club: Petone Ht: 180cm

Jessica, from Wellington with connections as far north as Kaitaia and Croatia in Europe, started out as a netball player before switching to rugby sevens in her third year of college, representing St Mary’s and Central Storm at the World Sevens in 2021. In 2025, she began playing 15s for the first time with Pōneke and made the Wellington Pride 7s team, winning that competition and earned a spot in the Pride squad in her debut 15s season. Having played representative netball since age 12, Jessica is known for her physicality, lineout aerial skills and breakdown work. For her, rugby means being surrounded by family, where she feels safe and supported. Confident and trusting her own ability, she was inspired to switch codes by her dad’s strong involvement with club rugby. She values the team culture and support from players, coaches and management, embracing a “never die” attitude.

Lock DOB: 17/11/2003

Debut: Debutant Caps:

Club: Pōneke Ht: 175cm

13

KEIANA ROFFEY

Keiana grew up in the small town of Wairewa, on Banks Peninsula, where she started playing rugby with the Banks Peninsula Rugby Football Club. After a few seasons, she transferred to Waihora Rugby Football Club due to numbers. In 2021, she played in the 1st XV for Christchurch Girls’ High School before moving to Wellington Girls’ College, where she currently plays. A standout moment was representing the Māreikura team, a special kaupapa for her as a Māori player and she has also played in Wellington age-grade teams and the U17 NZ Māori side at the Pacific Youth Cup Rugby League tournament. Known for her physical, gutsy playing style and love of contact in scrums, tackles and carries, Keiana brings empathy and strong interpersonal skills to her team, supporting teammates through challenges. She plays out of a genuine passion for the game and to feel connected to her dad. Her rugby superpower is resilience, never getting down after setbacks and always believing in comebacks.

Hooker/Prop

Debut: Debutant

DOB: 23/07/2007

KEIRA SU’A-SMITH

Ht: 179cm

Keira, proudly from Wainuiomata, began her rugby journey playing U6 rippa for Wainuiomata. She attended Sacred Heart College and celebrated a major milestone by winning the Wellington club rugby competition with Petone for the first time in 2024, clinching the win in overtime. Keira has very recently been part of the Black Ferns XV touring squad to South Africa and has previously competed at the Global Youth 7s. Known for her off-the-cuff, free playing style, she values effort and courage above all. Wainuiomata is more than just her hometown, it’s where her family is and where she feels she belongs.

Inspired by her older cousins and siblings who played rugby, Keira is driven by determination and resilience. She thrives on the joy of being with mates, doing what they love and has a knack for creating opportunities out of nothing.

Inside Back

Debut: Tasman, 2024

DOB: 4/09/2005

LAVINIA LEA

Caps:

Club: Pōneke

Caps: 6

Club: Petone Ht: 165cm

Lavinia, from Lower Hutt, played for the Petone Panthers and attended Hutt Valley High School. A proud moment in her rugby journey was earning her blazer for Petone. In 2025, she represented the Hurricanes Poua, and is known for her physicality and dynamic presence on the field, especially in contact situations. For Lavinia, Wellington holds deep meaning as the place her family, whose grandparents and parents migrated there, have called home for generations. She embodies resilience, never giving up even when things get tough, inspired by watching her brother and sister’s rugby and league careers growing up. Lavinia values the lifelong friendships and strong team culture that come with the sport, thriving on big hits and powerful runs.

Prop

Debut: Auckland, 2023

DOB: 12/02/2001

Caps: 9

Club: Petone Ht: 165cm

14

Litia, originally from Fiji, began her rugby journey playing in the U15 team for Mana College before moving on to represent St Mary’s College. She takes pride in winning back-to-back club rugby titles for Petone, in 2024 and 2025, and is known for her dynamic playing style, especially her impressive footwork. For Litia, Wellington is home because it’s where she’s lived since moving to New Zealand and where her family is. She brings a loud voice and energy to the field, driven by the support of friends and family.

LITIA BULICAKAU CAPTAIN

LOURDES FAIFUA

Outside Back

Debut: Tasman, 2024

DOB: 30/06/2006

Ht: 165cm

Lourdes, from Porirua, “the best city in the world”, played her first rugby game in primary school during a one-off tournament before seriously taking up the sport in Year 9 at St Mary’s College. She proudly represented the Cook Islands 7s team at the 2024 Oceania 7s tournament in the Solomon Islands. While still discovering her playing style, Lourdes knows she loves tackling and giving her all, not just for herself, but for her team. Porirua holds a special place in her heart as the home her grandparents chose after leaving the islands, a constant reminder of their sacrifices that have given her countless opportunities growing up. She values resilience and hard work, drawing strength from her late father, who also played rugby and remains a meaningful connection through the game. Playing for her people fuels her passion, and her faith in God sustains her.

Loose Forward

Debut: Debuant

DOB: 15/10/2002

MADISON GOLD

Caps: 4

Club: Petone

Caps: 4

Club: Petone Ht: 166cm

Madison, originally from Canada, began playing rugby in her first year of high school at G.P. Vanier and then played for the University of British Columbia (UBC). She celebrated winning the Canada West finals with UBC in both 2020 and 2021. Known for her ability to create space for teammates, whether by taking a tackle and offloading or passing just before contact, Madison excels at keeping the ball alive on the field. Although she’s only lived in Wellington for the past 1.5 years, she calls it home because of the warmth and acceptance she and her partner have found among coworkers and teammates. Driven by determination, Madison refuses to let others define her limits, inspired by the supportive teammates she’s met along the way. Rugby has gifted her lasting friendships and a strong support network. She balances focus and fun, knowing when to switch gears.

Midfield Back

Debut: Otago, 2024

DOB: 13/09/1997

Caps: 2

Club: Petone Ht: 178cm

15

MELE KUPA-CUMMINGS

Mele, born and bred in Porirua, began her rugby journey playing mixed teams in primary school before focusing on hockey through most of her time at Aotea College, returning to rugby in Year 13 for fun. She made her Wellington Pride 7s debut and joined the Kiwi Ferns wider squad in 2019, also representing international teams like Nagato Blue Angels 7s (Bangkok 7s champions 2023), Serengeti 10s (USA Rugby Tens Championship) and Cook Islands 7s at the Oceania Cup. Known as a fearless, aggressive flanker with strong physicality and agility, Mele values good sportsmanship and thrives on the challenge of protecting her teammates and pushing herself to improve every game. Inspired by her family’s migration sacrifices and her younger brother’s passion and growth in rugby, she embodies perseverance and loyalty. She also admires the women who cross-code between rugby union and league, appreciating the dedication it takes to succeed in both.

Loose Forward Debut: North Harbour, 2024 Club: Paremata-Plimmerton DOB: 27/10/1996

MILLY MACKEY

Ht: 169cm

Milly, a Wellington native, started playing rugby at age five with Newlands Junior Rugby Club after her parents signed her up. Raised watching the Wellington Pride and coached by her dad, she quickly developed a strong rugby IQ and an impressive work ethic. Milly has represented NZ Māori U18s in both 7s and 15s formats, played at national and international 7s tournaments including the World School 7s and Ignite 7s, and made her Hurricanes Poua debut with her nan proudly in the stands. Born and bred in Wellington, rugby is deeply rooted in her family and community, fuelling her passion and dedication. She values the friendships, opportunities and support rugby brings and is motivated by the chance to make her family proud.

Inside Back DOB: 23/02/2002

NAHLIAH TAGATAULITOLOVA’A

Caps: 1

Debut: Otago, 2021

Club: Petone

Caps: 20

Ht: 166cm

Nahliah, raised in Strathmore, Wellington, began her rugby journey at just seven years old with Pōneke before moving to Oriental Rongotai.

She developed her skills further while attending St Mary’s College, where one of her proudest achievements was winning the U15 Sevens Condors Tournament in 2020. Alongside rugby, Nahliah has been heavily involved in softball, representing Wellington at national levels and playing for the New Zealand Junior White Sox, showcasing her athletic versatility. She describes rugby as raw, real and hardcore, a reflection of her gritty playing style, particularly excelling at distributing players into space on the field. Wellington isn’t just where she plays, it’s where she truly belongs and feels empowered. Inspired by her dad, who shares her passion and sees great potential in her, Nahliah is dedicated to growing women’s rugby by demonstrating commitment and talent. She thrives in the team environment, loves the challenge of predicting and reading plays, and mentally prepares for matches with prayer.

Midfield Back DOB: 8/09/2006

Debut: Debuant Caps:

Club: Marist St Pats Ht: 153cm

16

NIA SUTHERLAND

PAIGE MISKY

Nia, residing in Porirua, developed her rugby skills at MANUKURA, where she has grown both physically and mentally, making incredible connections along the way. Her standout experiences include representing the country in U18 Sevens, attending the NZ U18 Māreikura Camp, playing for the NZ U18 Barbarians and competing in prestigious tournaments like the NZ Top 4 Secondary School Championships and the Sanix World School 7s in Japan. Known for her “twinkle toes,” quickness, fierce chop tackles and strong rugby IQ, Nia excels at creating opportunities and beating opponents one-onone. Porirua is the foundation of her strength and identity, a town that shaped who she is. Guided by the mantra to never be shy or afraid and to always go 100%, she thrives in positive team cultures full of laughter and success.

Midfield Back Debut: Debuant

Club: Petone

DOB: 8/07/2005

Ht: 160cm

Paige, hailing from Porirua, began her rugby journey in 2013 playing for St George before representing Wellington East Girls’ College and Manusina. She’s known for her upfront, physical playing style, embracing the physicality and intensity of the game. For Paige, rugby is not just about competition, it’s about having fun and enjoying the camaraderie on and off the field. Porirua holds a special place in her heart as the community where she grew up and where her family is based. Her dad, who coached her first team, has been a major influence, always encouraging her to develop her skills and become a better player. Beyond the game, rugby has gifted her with lifelong friendships and a strong sense of belonging.

Hooker/Prop

Debut: Canterbury, 2021

DOB: 20/02/2001

ROIMATA PARATA

Caps:

Caps: 7

Club: Northern United Ht: 160cm

Roimata, from Kapiti Coast, started playing rugby in 2017 with Paremata Plimmerton and played for Kapiti College before that.

Known for being cheeky, quick-thinking and fun, Roimata loves quick taps, finding gaps and keeping the game flowing. Her game awareness and ability to spot and react to opportunities set her apart on the field. She calls Wellington home because it’s where she feels most herself, rooted in her whānau and where she’s grown both as a player and a person. Confident and hardworking, Roimata backs herself and always tries to lift her teammates, embodying qualities she believes every young woman should aspire to. Initially, she took up rugby to get fit and try something new, but after eight seasons, it’s become a source of energy, purpose and belonging. Her quick taps are a signature move, especially when she’s powering over the line.

Prop

Debut: Tasman, 2024

DOB: 30/09/1993

Caps: 6

Club: Paremata-Plimmerton Ht: 170cm

17

SANITA LEVAVE

Sanita, from Porirua, began playing rugby in college when St Mary’s didn’t have a team, so she played under Wellington Girls. She recently celebrated her 200th game for her beloved club Northern United. A highlight of her career was playing for the Black Ferns in 2014 and going to the World Cup, an experience she fondly recalls even if the team didn’t win. Known as the team motivator, Sanita brings fun and energy, especially when boosting morale during tough moments. She feels deeply connected to the rugby community’s diversity, passion and heart, valuing respect and resilience both on and off the field.

Inspired by wanting to prove she could play a “boy’s sport” like her brothers, and encouraged by older cousins who played for Northern United, rugby gives her a sense of unity, challenge and personal growth.

Lock

Debut: 2008

DOB: 8/11/1988

TE ARANI TE PUNI

Ht: 184cm

Te Arani, originally from Palmerston North, has played for ParemataPlimmerton since 2023 and in 2025, proudly won the Izzy Ford Cup with her team. With a background in touch rugby, Te Arani’s playing style is adaptive and calculating, focusing on playing what’s in front of her. She feels a strong connection to Wellington as the place where her mum grew up and where her and her siblings were born. Motivated by a drive to improve and inspired by family who loved watching rugby, Te Arani values the family-like culture within the sport and brings mental fortitude to the field.

Inside Back

Debut: Debuant

DOB: 4/02/2003

TIA BROWN

Caps: 62

Club: Northern United

Caps:

Club: Paremata-Plimmerton Ht: 158cm

Tia, from Kāpiti, began her rugby journey at age 10 with the Paraparaumu Rugby Club and then played for Kāpiti College. One of her proudest moments so far is making the squad for the Pride and competing in the Southern Highland 7s tournament in Australia with her college team. She describes her playing style simply as fast, relying on her natural speed and always staying coachable, valuing feedback and growth without arrogance. Tia feels grateful to call Kāpiti home, recognising the sacrifices her parents made for a better life. Inspired by them, she loves the friendships and team connections rugby brings and enjoys seeing her personal progress on the field.

Outside Back Debut: Debuant DOB: 31/12/2003

Caps:

Club: Petone Ht: 170cm

18

VALINI VAKA

XANTHE SOMERVILLE

Valini, born and raised in Wellington, started playing rugby at just eight years old with Marist St Pats after a chance moment with her dad and aunty at training. Inspired by her aunty, Tia Paasi, she’s been hooked ever since. A standout moment for Valini was winning the Tia Paasi Memorial Cup in 2023, the trophy named after her aunty, who remains a strong role model. On the field, she’s known as a physical nuisance, excelling in ruck work like counter rucking and jackling. Although she’s moved around within Wellington, the city always feels like home, comfortable and familiar. Valini believes every player should bring their unique background and values to the game and strive to be their best selves. Her motivation comes from watching her aunty’s journey and proving doubters wrong. For her, rugby is about the people, the connections and the lifelong friendships formed along the way.

Hooker/Loose Forward

Debut: Otago, 2021 Club: Marist St Pats

DOB: 30/04/2003

Caps: 12

Ht: 167cm

Xanthe, from Masterton in the Wairarapa, began her rugby journey with Eketahuna and played for Wairarapa Wāhine Toa and Wairarapa Bush, proudly wearing her home colours, red and green. Selected for the NZ U18 Māreikura in 2023, she’s known for her exciting ball-carrying style. Wellington has become a second home where she’s built strong friendships and community ties, but her roots and heart remain with her rugby family, her siblings and parents who supported their shared love of the game from early on. Xanthe embodies determination and mana, driven by the joy of playing alongside her sisters and improving every day. Her rugby superpower is her “explosive engine”: as a lock, she combines serious strength with relentless energy, powering through defenses and dominating rucks like a freight train that won’t quit.

Lock

Debut: Debuant

DOB: 30/08/2005

Caps:

Club: Marist St Pats Ht: 173cm

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