Tawera Nikau
Tawera Nikau has played Rugby League for some of the best teams in the world, including the Cronulla Sharks, Sheffield and Castleford, and also with Warrington in England which included a Challenge Cup final at Wembley. He was a member of the New Zealand Kiwis and a founding player for the Melbourne Storm, helping them to win the coveted NRL championship in their first year. In 2005, the Storms named a stand after him at Melbourne's Olympic Park.
Tawera coached the NZ Maori World Cup Squad in 2000 and the Bartercard Cup team, the Wai-Coa Bay Stallions, for two seasons. He recently joined Maori Television's sports show, 'Monday Night League' as a commentator. He is already a co-host of the channel's flagship sports entertainment show, ‘Code’.
Tawera is committed to giving back to the communities that have given him so much. He has been involved in the Fight for Life and runs the NZN Trust for youth in Huntly. In 2004, a year after losing part of a leg in a motorbike accident, he helped launch a major motorcycle stafety campaign.
As a businessman, Tawera is a very successful property investor and is one of the directors of a training company. He has a Diploma in Tertiary Teaching and is studying for his Bachelor of Education.
Tawera was recently appointed to the New Zealand Order of Merit by the Queen, an honour well deserved.
Tawera is an excellent communicator, and people from all walks of life appreciate his down-to-earth delivery.
Testimonials
Tawera exceeded expectations. He delivered well and made an impact with his experiences. The presentation was excellent.—St Kentigerns School Parents & Friends
You could have heard a pin drop from the moment Tawera started speaking. He was so powerful, funny, moving, emotive and entertaining. Every single person in the room could take something from his speech. However, he was so much more than just a speaker. He mingled with all of our guests, from Directors to factory workers and was so incredibly approachable and personable. Everyone loved him and if the right opportunity arose, we'd love to invite him back to other company events.—Fonterra
Tawera has had some amazing experiences and this really captured the interest of our staff. His ability to connect with his audience to get his point across regarding the strength of a team and how this can lead to success was fantastic. I personally enjoyed meeting Tawera and how down to earth and approachable he was.—Farmlands Trading Society Ltd
More information
To request more information, add Tawera Nikau to your shortlist.