Next steps for pathway programmes supporting young Māori players

NZR, in partnership with the NZ Māori Rugby Board, is considering the evolution of the Māori Rugby Development Programme, while continuing to view the U18 Ngā Whatukura and Mareikura pathways as critical and highly valued components of Māori player development.

The updated pathways will provide meaningful development and talent identification opportunities for young Māori players, and ensure they are seen, supported and set up to thrive throughout their rugby journey.

As part of the pathways, players can look forward to some exciting opportunities later in the year.

Mike Hester, General Manager Community Rugby Participation and Development, says “We are excited to be collaborating with a developing rugby nation on a potential Age Grade Sevens touring programme for young Māori men and women players, later this year, with more details to be shared in the coming months.“

This initiative marks a significant step in NZR’s talent development system, giving young Māori players meaningful exposure to international competition while supporting the growth of rugby abroad and strengthening global sporting relationships, says Hester.

Back home, the NZ Māori U18 Ngā Whatukura team will take part in a two-week Pathways Programme and tournament beginning on 22 September. This immersive block will bring players from across New Zealand, Australia, Tonga and Samoa together in an environment that blends rugby development, cultural connection and competitive fixtures. It is a key opportunity for these young men to deepen their skills, strengthen their identity within the programme and prepare for the next stage of their rugby journey. 

NZR is also looking at how a U18 Mareikura programme may be delivered in 2026. In addition to the Age Grade Sevens touring programme, this may include participation in Global Youth 7s events in December 2026. 

To support delivery of these programmes, Kahu Carey has been appointed into the Director of Rugby role. Tiki Edwards, Māori Rugby Development Manager, says Kahu’s experience in the Māori development space will be invaluable in the successful delivery of these programmes. 

“Kahu brings a wealth of mātauranga and experience across both Te Ao Māori and rugby delivery, and we are excited to have him supporting this kaupapa”, Edwards said.

"I'm proud to be part of the E Tū Toa Ngā Whatukura kaupapa and the opportunities it creates for our rangatahi. Our focus is on identifying and supporting talented young Māori, strengthening connections with whānau and communities, and ensuring this pathway continues to inspire and develop future leaders.
 
E Tū Toa Ngā Whatukura represents the very best of what can be achieved when we invest in our rangatahi. I look forward to seeing the next generation embrace this opportunity, grow their potential, and make a lasting contribution to their communities and Aotearoa," Carey said.

As part of the updated pathways approach in 2026, NZR has refined the selection process. A centrally managed online school and club nomination system has been introduced, alongside a new online talent identification platform shared with every Provincial Union academy and Super Rugby club. This will be the main method of identifying Māori talent through the new digital and union led processes, respecting the competing demands on players through their Club and PU programmes.

Recruitment for the vacant positions in the U18 Ngā Whatukura management and scouting groups will begin shortly.

NZR and the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board will continue to work together on the long-term future of programmes for young Māori athletes to ensure this connection is strengthened as players move through the high-performance system.