Porirua United Kirikiti Club has won the Wellington region’s first women’s-only kirikiti tournament, claiming the title at a landmark event celebrating Pasifika women’s sport.
The inaugural Malaeola Women’s Kirikiti Tournament was held on Wellington Anniversary Day at Fraser Park, drawing hundreds of players, whānau and supporters from across Porirua, the Hutt Valley and wider Wellington.
Porirua United was one of eight teams competing in the historic tournament and went on to win the finals, marking a significant achievement for the club and for women’s kirikiti in Porirua.
Hosted by Matagi mai le Laumua, the tournament brought together a mix of established clubs and newly formed teams, reflecting growing participation and leadership by Pasifika women and girls.
“This was more than a tournament. It was a moment of revival, unity and cultural pride,” said Leulua’ialii Eseta Aiolupotea. “To witness our women and girls take ownership of the malae in this historic first has been incredibly moving.”
Teams competing alongside Porirua United included Teine 690 Blue, Teine 690 Yellow, Ulalei Lupe, The Katos, Meto Malosi, Teine Toa and Hutt Girls, with pool matches and finals played throughout the day.
Matches were marked by team songs, chants and distinctive playing styles, creating a strong atmosphere and drawing support from Porirua families who travelled to cheer on their side.
The event followed a smoke-free, vape-free, water-only kaupapa and included food stalls and onsite health services, reinforcing a focus on wellbeing and family-friendly participation.
Emily Leleimalefaga said the community response highlighted the demand for more opportunities for women in the sport.
“We are humbled by the support from our communities,” she said. “Seeing women celebrated and encouraged shows why this kaupapa is so important.”
The tournament was supported by a range of community and health organisations, including GJ Gardner Hutt Valley, Tū Ora Compass Health, Vaka Tautua, Hutt City Council, Healthy Families Lower Hutt, Healthy Communities Te Whatu Ora, Ulalei Sport Wainuiomata, Te Mana, McDonald’s Lower Hutt, and the Iupelī and Seufalemua aiga.
Organisers say the success of the inaugural tournament, has laid the foundation for future women’s kirikiti events and pathways for players across Porirua and the wider Wellington region.
To stay up to date with women’s kirikiti, future tournaments and community events, follow Matagi mai le Laumua on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/p/Matagi-mai-le-Laumua-61557059341197/.
