October 2026
The Uawa Nasties have celebrated a memorable 30–28 Grand Final victory over the Paikea Whalers, marking a significant milestone in a journey built on resilience, whanaungatanga and a commitment to putting people before trophies.
For the Uawa Nasties, winning the championship represents much more than success on the rugby league field. It reflects four years of rebuilding, strengthening connections and creating a positive environment for the men of Uawa.
After 27 years away from the competition, the team was brought back following the devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle, providing an opportunity to reconnect whānau, lift community spirits and give local men something positive to be part of.
The journey has not been without challenges, including the loss of two much-loved members of the Nasties whānau.
Uncle JS Crawford, a former Nasty and an early supporter of the team's return, passed away during the journey. The team also experienced the tragic loss of Harry Papuni, remembered for the laughter, love and energy he brought to those around him.
These losses made the Grand Final victory particularly meaningful for the team and everyone who had supported them along the way.
At the heart of the Uawa Nasties is a simple but powerful kaupapa: Mana Over Medals.
While rugby league brings the team together, the bigger purpose has always been about supporting men to strengthen their connections with their whānau, identity and community.
The team has worked to create an environment where players feel valued, supported and comfortable being themselves, while recognising the importance of their responsibilities beyond the field.
Being a good father, husband, friend and whānau member is considered just as important as being a good rugby league player.
As reflected in the team's kōrero:
“Rugby league is the vehicle, not the destination.”
Through the game, players have been able to build friendships, strengthen relationships and support one another through life's challenges.
While winning the competition is an achievement worth celebrating, the real success has been establishing a strong group of men who know they belong and have people around them who care.
Support from Toitū Ngāti Porou has played a valuable role in helping the Uawa Nasties continue their kaupapa.
Funding provided to the team helped them access additional resources and reduce some of the financial pressures associated with participating in rugby league.
For players balancing work, parenting and whānau responsibilities, reducing these costs has helped make participation more manageable.
The team wanted to ensure that playing rugby league did not create an additional financial burden for their men and their households.
The support allowed players to focus on their responsibilities both on and off the field while continuing to participate in apositive team environment.
For the Nasties, the contribution from Toitū Ngāti Porou represented more than financial assistance. It was an investment in the wellbeing of their people and the strength of their community.
The team's success has been supported by the wider Uawa community, with whānau, supporters and local organisations contributing throughout the journey.
From messages of encouragement to the growing support shown throughout the season, the Nasties have felt the backing of their community.
Behind the scenes, team manager Krystal Garrett and coach Cory Garrett have played important roles in establishing a supportive environment for the players.
Their commitment, alongside the wider management whānau, has helped create a team culture built on trust, consistency and genuine care.
The Nasties also place importance on encouraging positive choices away from the field, supporting players to prioritise their wellbeing and spend time with their whānau.
For the team, creating a safe and positive environment where players can enjoy the game without pressure or ego remains central to their kaupapa.
Following their Grand Final victory, the Uawa Nasties are looking towards a future that extends beyond winning championships.
Their aspiration is to continue developing a strong foundation that encourages others within the community to step into leadership, coaching, management and support roles.
By creating opportunities for more people to contribute, the team hopes to ensure the kaupapa continues to grow for future generations.
While remaining competitive on the field isimportant, maintaining the positive wairua, whanaungatanga and sense of belonging within the team remains the priority.
The Uawa Nasties' championship victory is acelebration of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose.
More than a trophy, it represents the strength oftheir whānau, the resilience of their community and the lasting impact ofinvesting in people.
