3 September 2026

Aotearoa Māori Netball Secondary Schools names leadership group ahead of Pacific Rim Invitational Secondary Schools Tournament

Aotearoa Māori Netball is proud to announce Aria Gardiner and Te Ao Rangi Tawhara as Co-Captains of the Aotearoa Māori Netball Secondary Schools (AMNSS) team for its 2026 campaign.

The pair will lead the team at the upcoming Pacific Rim Invitational Secondary Schools Tournament, being held from 26–28 September 2026.

Aria and Te Ao Rangi will be supported by a strong and experienced leadership team comprising Leiria Wharewaka-Vai, Zoe Jacob and Maddi Zimmerman.

Head Coach Taz Tawhara said the selection of the leadership group reflected not only the qualities the players bring to the court, but also the values and responsibilities that come with representing Aotearoa Māori Netball.

“I am incredibly proud to announce Aria Gardiner and Te Ao Rangi Tawhara as our co-captains for the 2026 Aotearoa Māori Secondary Schools campaign.

Leadership does not just take place on the court; it is about carrying the mana of our people in everything we do. These two athletes completely embody the core values of our kaupapa: whanaungatanga, manaakitanga and pono.

These kōhine bring experience, tactical intelligence, and a fearless work ethic to our campaign. More importantly, they lead by example in how they carry themselves, lift their teammates, and represent our culture.

Congratulations Aria and Te Ao Rangi. I have absolute faith in your ability to guide this waka, inspire these kōhine, and lead us to success.

Ngā mihi nui ki a kōrua, kia kaha!”

— Taz Tawhara, Head Coach

The appointment of Aria and Te Ao Rangi, alongside Leiria, Zoe and Maddi, provides AMNSS with a leadership group grounded in experience, commitment and kaupapa Māori.

Together, they will play an important role in supporting their teammates and representing the mana of Aotearoa Māori Netball both on and off the court throughout the Pacific Rim campaign.

He waka eke noa.

AMNOHL congratulates Aria, Te Ao Rangi, Leiria, Zoe and Maddi on their appointments and wishes the entire AMNSS team every success as they prepare to represent Aotearoa Māori Netball on the international stage.

For further information, please contact:

Elaine Wi
National Netball Manager
ewi@amnohl.com