By Esther Lauaki
What’s your connection to Melton?
We moved to Melton because it was somewhere different and we really wanted to live here.
We’re originally from the Tolaga Bay on the east coast of New Zealand.
How long have you lived in the area?
I’ve lived in Melton nearly nine years.
What are you passionate about?
Rugby. I loved to see kids happy. When I look in the rear view mirror after a game, I watch them talk about how they played and it takes me back to my days. When I was young, we had no boots and scrunchy grass under our feet. We’re born and bred to play rugby in New Zealand.
Tell us about your involvement with the Melton Warriors Rugby Union club.
I’ve been involved since 2014. I have three children, two girls and a boy, that all play rugby and I’m really proud of that. I was pretty sporty myself and my kids have adopted that too. I’ve been coaching the under-6s all that time. We’ve picked up a few lessons and made some changes in the club.
As the newly elected club president, what’s your vision for the club?
I want to see us thrive. Our numbers are starting to boost up. I want unity and family in the club. We would like to see more people in the community involved. My vision is to see people support and share the load. If you want them to have a future in rugby, it’s up to us to show them the way.
What other hats do you wear in the community?
I also coached the Melton Stallions under-10s basketball team. I volunteered running a boys’ youth program at The Gap where we painted bikes and did them up for the boys to take home and ride.
What’s something people don’t know about you?
I like diving for shellfish. I’ve been stabbed by a stingray right in the chest – same place as Mr Irwin. The barb snapped right off in my chest, but I survived. People must have been shocked to see this Maori guy walking up the beach like that.
What do you love about Melton?
It’s the lifestyle, the country feel and the people. We feel the support from the whole community.
What would you like to see improved?
More people getting involved in the local community groups. I’d encourage people to get involved for our kids and youth to keep them interested and engaged.
