MANAIA NUKU

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Manaia Nuku is a dynamic halfback and first receiver for the Black Ferns Sevens, celebrated for her sharp game management, defensive leadership, and strong cultural presence. A proud descendant of Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Ranginui, she emerged from Hamilton Girls’ High School as a national age-grade standout in both touch and sevens rugby. After starring for Waikato in the Farah Palmer Cup at just 18, Manaia earned a full-time Black Ferns Sevens contract in 2021 straight out of school.

She made her international debut in 2022 and quickly became a key contributor to the team’s success in the World SVNS Series. In 2023, she also played professionally for the New York Locals in the Premier Rugby Sevens (USA), winning Defensive Player of the Year. A fluent Te Reo Māori speaker and cultural leader, she has led haka and waiata within the squad and is deeply involved in cultural facilitation.

In 2024, Manaia helped guide New Zealand to Olympic gold in Paris, continuing her meteoric rise on the world stage. Known for her poise under pressure, game IQ, and leadership despite her youth, she represents the future of New Zealand rugby - on the field and as a cultural ambassador.

Nickname: Nais or Naia

Date of Birth: 3 September 2003

Place of Birth: Tauranga, New Zealand 

Secondary School Attended: Hamilton Girls' High School

University: Bachelor of Sport and Exercise and Diploma in Te Reo Maori at Massey University(completed)

Representative Sports Played: NZ touch 

Height: 169cm

Weight: 65kg

Career high: Winning Gold at the Paris Olympics 2025 with the New Zealand Womens Sevens Team

Career low: ACL injury and recovery