The Otahuhu Rugby League Club hosted a memorable day of competition and camaraderie on May 27 as Police Association members from around the country came together for Hui Taurima o Riki – Festival of Rugby League. 

The event featured three matches highlighting the growing strength of the game within NZ Police, while also honouring the traditions and connections that have shaped Police Rugby League over many years. 

Masters Station of Origin

The festival opened with the Masters Station of Origin clash between Counties Manukau and Auckland, with Counties Manukau securing a hard-fought victory.

The match proved that the game’s “OGs” have lost none of their skill, competitiveness or passion, delivering an entertaining contest despite the inevitable aches and pains that come after fulltime. Jordan Brown (Counties Manukau) and Christian Iogha (Auckland) were recognised as Players of the Day for their performances. 

NZ Police Rugby League chairman Mark Clayton said the Masters fixture was an important reminder of the organisation’s history. “With our Masters supporting the day, we are incredibly proud to maintain the whakapapa of NZ Police Rugby League, which began several decades ago.” 

Women’s Battle of the Bombays

The second match marked a significant milestone for Police Rugby League, with the first-ever internal NZ Police wāhine rugby league game taking place.

Players from across the upper North Island districts embraced the occasion, producing a match packed with committed defence and attacking flair that kept spectators engaged throughout. The Southerners claimed the inaugural silverware with a 28-12 win. 

Eden Cherrington (Northland) and Kaci James (Bay of Plenty) were named Players of the Day after standout performances for their respective teams. 

The match highlighted the continued growth of the women’s game within NZ Police and provided further evidence of the strong talent emerging throughout the country.

Kali Cup – Station of Origin 

The day concluded with the traditional Station of Origin fixture for the Kali Cup, contested by Counties Manukau and Auckland/Waitematā.

The cup honours Constable Kali Fungavaka, who was tragically killed in Tonga in 2012 and was a passionate supporter and driving force behind Police Rugby League. 

The match delivered plenty of big hits, skilful play and highlight-reel moments. Counties Manukau eventually ran out 44-8 winners, although the scoreline did not fully reflect the competitiveness of the contest. 

Among the standout performers were Tala Teisi (Otahuhu), Barrie Pine (Counties Manukau DPU) and Simon Luafalealo (Henderson). Danya Aleni (Counties Manukau DPU) and Sione Paea (Auckland PSU) earned Player of the Day honours. 

The full match can be viewed here. 

Looking ahead, attention now turns to the naming of the NZ Police Rugby League touring squads. The men’s and women’s teams will travel to the Gold Coast in October for a tri-series against Australian Police and Fijian Police teams. After the quality displayed across the festival matches, selectors are likely to face some difficult decisions. 

The festival demonstrated the depth of talent across NZ Police Rugby League while reinforcing the strong sense of community, tradition and pride that continues to drive the sport forward.