20 kilometres south of Whakatane, at the base of the Urewera Valley you will find Ruatoki. A small town that Te Mōtoi Kahurangi Harawira calls home.

Harawira started playing touch for Bay of Plenty when she was 9 years old. She has progressed through the Touch NZ pathways, and this year she’s been selected in the NZ U16 Mixed black team. She credits her growth to the guidance of her coaching staff.

“I’ve met some really cool coaches and managers who have helped me so much,” said Harawira. “They’ve helped make me the player I am today.”

She understands that representing her country comes with commitment and sacrifice, and thanks hter whānau for keeping her on track.

“My parents are always encouraging me to train hard and keep fit. I don’t always enjoy the trainings, but I know if I put the work in then success will come. Mā pango, mā whero ka oti te mahi.”

A proud descendent of Tūhoe, Ngati Awa, and Ngai Te Rangi, Harawira has a strong sense of cultural identity. The year 12 student attends Te Wharekura o Ruatoki, New Zealand’s first official bilingual school.

Harawira is the first of her family to be selected for a national team - something she has dreamed of for a long time.

“What I am looking forward to is pulling on the strip. To show that this girl from Ruatoki got to wear the fern and represent her whānau and her community.”

Harawira will join the Under 16 Mixed Black team for the Development Tour being held from the 3rd - 7th September in Auckland.

To read the full team lists click here.

Article added: Wednesday 22 July 2020