Manukura School Girls’ Rugby Team Aims for Fourth National Title

A girls’ first XV rugby team from Manukura School in Palmerston North is set to compete for an unprecedented fourth consecutive national title. The team has been training diligently at the school’s new campus, which opened in 2022, as they prepare for their semi-final match against Howick College on March 15, 2024.

During a recent training session, former triple-international Kristina Sue guided the team through their drills. She emphasized the importance of both physical preparation and mental resilience as the girls gear up for what promises to be a challenging match. One standout player is Kingston Taiapa, an 18-year-old lock who is in her final year at Manukura. “We are quite excited to play Howick on Friday,” she shared. “We have been training every school day morning since the beginning of this year.”

Founded approximately two decades ago by Nathan Durie and Yvette McCausland-Durie, a prominent netball coach, Manukura School has a unique focus on te ao Māori and sports. With a total student body of just 180, the school offers specialized academic and athletic programs designed to foster talent and personal growth.

Taiapa, who hails from Hicks Bay on the East Coast, expressed gratitude for the opportunities afforded to her at Manukura. “I come from a rural, small town. There’s a lot of talent down the coast, but I had to leave my beautiful home to come here and pursue my dreams,” she explained. “I want to get educated in both te ao Māori and te ao Pākehā, and take that knowledge back to the coast for those rural kids who don’t get many opportunities.”

Training at Manukura is intense, with sessions scheduled for 7:45 a.m. followed by four study blocks before another practice at 2 p.m. Some athletes even participate in additional training sessions with the Manawatū Cyclones or league teams after school. Taiapa highlighted the importance of time management skills that the rigorous schedule cultivates.

In addition to Taiapa, the team welcomes Rere Kauia, a 15-year-old flanker and lock from Hastings. Like Taiapa, she has been billeted with a staff member, allowing her to immerse herself in the school’s culture. Kauia was inspired to attend Manukura after hearing about its opportunities from past students. “My coaches told me about this school and the amazing opportunities through sports,” she noted.

If Manukura wins their semi-final, they will defend their title in the national finals scheduled for Sunday. Kauia shared her mindset ahead of the game, stating, “I just want to stay calm and collected and get my head in the right mindset.”

The camaraderie within the team is palpable, with Sue describing Manukura as a close-knit family. As a former player for New Zealand in rugby, league, and touch, she brings invaluable experience to the coaching staff. Alongside her partner, former Sevens international and netballer Rhiarna Ferris, Sue balances her responsibilities as a coach with her work as a television commentator. Following the finals, she will head to Auckland for coverage of the women’s world cup.

Sue underscored that the focus on sport does not come at the expense of academic achievement. The school promotes a holistic approach to education, encouraging a balanced lifestyle that prioritizes health and well-being. “It’s a commitment. It’s a different model of education that works for young Māori,” she explained. “We always say to applicants: If you sign up to Manukura, it’s a lifestyle change.”

With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, the Manukura team is poised for success this weekend. Taiapa expressed optimism about their chances, saying, “I hope we go well. I’m feeling calm and confident with our girls.”

As they prepare for the semi-final, the spirit of teamwork and the pursuit of excellence remain at the forefront for these young athletes.