The One New Zealand Warriors have added six players to their 2025 NRLW squad, including former Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers halfback Emily Curtain and ex-Newcastle Knights second-rower Felila Kia.
Curtain, a 23-year-old with four years of NRLW experience is noted for her defensive mindset and game management skills, while 20-year-old Kia, who has a background in both rugby league and union, is described as a powerful back-rower with potential to make an immediate impact.
Also joining the squad are Cook Islands internationals Lavinia Kitai, Lydia Turua-Quedley, and Kaiyah Atai, alongside Wellington-raised forward Maarire Puketapu, who brings cross-Tasman rugby league experience and a background as a national softball representative.
Head coach Ronald Griffiths expressed excitement about the diverse skills and determination of the new recruits, emphasizing their strong work ethic, leadership potential, and cultural connections.
Kitai, a 20-year-old front-rower, has demonstrated significant growth in Australia’s premiership competitions, while Turua-Quedley’s return to the sport after motherhood highlights her dedication. Atai’s versatility and reflective mindset have also impressed Griffiths, as has Puketapu’s high-performance mentality rooted in her experience representing New Zealand in softball. With 22 players now signed and the squad nearing completion, Griffiths believes the Warriors are assembling a competitive and dynamic team for the 2025 season.
Adding to their momentum, the Warriors have made another signing coup with Tysha Ikenasio, a current Black Ferns Sevens teammate of Michaela Blyde, switching codes to join the team for their NRLW return next year.
Secured on a three-season contract, the 27-year-old Ikenasio brings a wealth of experience, having played sevens rugby in Japan and represented New Zealand in touch and tag rugby.
Alongside her are fellow rugby union converts Payton Takimoana, Kalyn Takitimu-Cook, and Makayla Eli. Griffiths is confident that these players will add further depth and versatility to the squad as they finalize preparations for what promises to be a groundbreaking season.
