Māori Football Aotearoa continued its work in the Waiariki region this week with a productive hui at the Waiariki FC clubrooms, reinforcing a shared vision for football development, culture, and pathways in the Bay of Plenty.
MFA kaumātua Phill Pickering-Parker opened the evening by donating football resources to Waiariki FC as part of the partnership between the two organisations.
He then provided a detailed report on MFA’s activities earlier in the day at Whakarewarewa School, where he, local coach Sergio, WaiBOP Football, and Sport Bay of Plenty worked together to deliver football sessions and inspire tamariki.
As part of the hui, Parker introduced Auckland City FC General Manager Gordon Watson to the Waiariki FC committee.
Watson shared insights from the club’s recent experience at the FIFA Club World Cup in the USA, speaking about the importance of organisational culture, tikanga, and individual leadership styles – and how these can be brought to the fore to strengthen football environments at every level.
The Waiariki FC committee offered their own perspectives on the role of culture within their club, emphasising how inclusive and relational behaviours extend football opportunities across the city and the wider region.
They also discussed the importance of legacy, tradition, and respect for history and identity – both within Waiariki FC and across the long-standing football community in Rotorua.
Parker highlighted the strategic importance of the MFA–Waiariki FC relationship:
“The relationship between Māori Football Aotearoa and Waiariki FC is crucial as it forms the tip of the spear in this region.
“We saw today the value of opening up the imagination of tamariki at Whakarewarewa School, connecting their minds with a dream of playing football and then showing the pathway.
“A key part of that pathway is Waiariki FC and Māori Football Aotearoa – it provides somewhere for young people to aim, where they see cultural consistency and where they can play football in an environment where they recognise the values and the kaupapa.”
Waiariki FC representative Brendon Hurihanganui said the hui was both enjoyable and productive.
“Waiariki FC is happy to have hosted Phil and Gordon at our clubrooms tonight.
“It was interesting to listen to their experiences and also the work they did earlier today at Whakarewarewa School.
“We want the relationship with MFA to get stronger and we are sure it will.”
The hui closed with a shared commitment to building on the strong foundations of the partnership, ensuring that football in Rotorua continues to grow in ways that respect and celebrate both cultural values and the game’s traditions.
Ends
Photo Credit and Video Credit: Māori Football Aotearoa
Video – Māori Football Aotearoa visits Waiariki FC & Whakarewarewa Primary School
