AUCKLAND, New Zealand – Māori Football Aotearoa (MFA) is proud to announce the appointment of Maruwhare Harman as the organisation’s Kaiwhakahaere (Administrator) — a historic milestone as MFA’s first-ever employee since its establishment in 2008.
The appointment was formally announced at MFA’s Annual General Meeting, held on Sunday 3 August 2025 at Ngahue, Tamaki Makaurau, and marks a significant step in the continued growth of the organisation.
Maruwhare (Ngāti Maniapoto, Whakatōhea) brings with her a wealth of experience in kaupapa Māori sport, strategic event coordination, and stakeholder engagement.
Her previous roles include Regional Development Coordinator at Waka Ama NZ and Operations Manager roles both in Aotearoa and overseas. She is known for her mana-enhancing presence, leadership, and commitment to creating inclusive spaces that uplift whānau, hapori, and rangatahi Māori through sport.
MFA’s Phill Parker welcomed the appointment, saying: “This is a landmark moment for Māori Football Aotearoa. Maruwhare’s appointment reflects not only her outstanding skills and experience, but our commitment to embedding a kaupapa Māori approach in everything we do. She will play a vital role in strengthening our systems, supporting our governance, and delivering on our vision of thriving Māori futures through football.”
As Kaiwhakahaere, Maruwhare will support the MFA Board, lead operational administration, and contribute to the development of internal processes, policy, and communications, ensuring that Māori voice and values remain central as the organisation grows its presence nationally and globally in the sport of football.
Please join us in welcoming Maruwhare Harman to the Māori Football Aotearoa whānau.
Nā tō rourou, nā taku rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.
Ends
Photo Credit: Image Supplied
For further information please contact:
Māori Football Aotearoa
Kaiwhakahaere
Maruwhare Harman
E: Maruwhare@maorifootball.co.nz
M: 021 285 7747
