Waiāriki Māori Netball teams compete in National tournament

The 38th Aotearoa Māori Netball Oranga Healthy Lifestyles (AMNOHL) National Tournament will take place this Easter weekend at Wellington's Ākau Tangi Sports Centre. Ten regional teams, or waka, including the prestigious Waiāriki Māori netball teams, compete in the event, which is hosted by the Ikaroa ki te Tonga region.

Waiāriki, representing the central and eastern North Island areas such as Rotorua, Tauranga, Whakatāne, and Taupō, fields teams across four age groups: under-13, under-15, under-17, and under-19.

With a legacy of 38 years, Waiāriki has been nurturing talents like Silver Ferns players Erena Mikaere and Khiarna Williams, as well as Mary-Jane Araroa, the current head coach of the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic.


More than just a competition, AMNOHL embodies the ethos of "Tū Ora, Tū Kaha, Tū Mana, Tū Māori" (Be Healthy, Be Strong, Be Proud, Be Māori).

The tournament serves as a platform to promote healthy lifestyles and cultural pride among Māori women and their families through the medium of netball.

Taneta Riki, president of the Waiāriki Māori netball waka, emphasizes the tournament's unique role in celebrating te ao Māori (the Māori world) and providing young Māori women with opportunities to connect, grow, and represent their heritage with pride. The tournament has been pivotal in fostering a deep connection to her roots and empowering her as a young Māori athlete.

The tournament continues through Sunday, inspiring the next generation of Māori sportspersons and leaders.