Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union (CMRFU) proudly hosted its 71st Annual General Meeting on Sunday, with strong attendance from clubs and members across the Union.
The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on a successful 2025 season, both on and off the field. Members acknowledged the outstanding work delivered by the Union and its staff, recognising the collective contribution to growing, empowering, and inspiring people through rugby across the Counties Manukau region.
The AGM also marked an important step forward in governance, with four new appointments confirmed to the CMRFU Board following a comprehensive process led by the Board Appointments Panel. The panel was chaired by former New Zealand Rugby Director Jennifer Kerr and included current CMRFU Chair Sarah Bell, alongside club representatives Hugh Chapman (Ardmore Marist) and John Hume (Pukekohe), and mana whenua representative Jim Coe (Ngāti Te Ata).
Avan Polo has been appointed as an Appointed Director for a three-year term, while Jennie Wyllie joins the Board as an Independent Director, also for a three-year term.
Renee Maxwell (Manurewa) has been reappointed as a Club Rugby Director and will be joined by Greg Saunders (Pukekohe) and Rick Tagelagi (Drury), with terms running through to February 2027.
These appointments complete a fully constituted Board, tasked with leading the Union into its next phase and continuing to build on the momentum achieved in recent seasons.
The Union also acknowledged and thanked its departing Directors for their service and commitment. Andrew Foote and Trevor Strang finished up their tenures — great work, lads. Tara Coe concludes three-and-a-half years as a Club Rugby Director, while Phil Mohan departs after one year as an Appointed Director.
The AGM recognised a range of outstanding contributions across the 2025 season, with the follwing award recipients honoured:
- Volunteer of the Year: Alana Munro (Beachlands Maraetai Rugby Club)
- Club of the Year (John Nicholson Trophy): Pukekohe Rugby Club
- AS Wilcox Premier Club Men’s Player of the Year: Nikolasi Muli (Ardmore Marist Rugby Club)
- AS Wilcox Premier Club Women’s Player of the Year: Sariyah Patai (Patumahoe Rugby Club)
- George Bell Memorial Trophy for Long Service: Stuart Hill (Maramarua Rugby Club)
- Referee of the Year: Brandon Roberts (Counties Manukau Rugby Referees’ Association)
- Ultimate Game Day Experience – Club of the Year: Karaka Rugby Club
CMRFU extends its sincere gratitude to all outgoing Board members and award recipients for their valuable contributions and dedication to the growth and success of rugby in the region.
Serving as a Director of the Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union carries significant responsibility. Directors volunteer their time, contribute their expertise, and provide leadership to ensure the long-term strength and sustainability of the Union.
As the Union looks ahead, it does so with a strong governance group in place and a shared commitment to continuing to grow the game and serve its community.
