After the announcement of Dwanye Polataivao as the Premier Coach for 2026, the remainder of the coaching team has been confirmed.

Joining Dwanye as assistant coaches next season will be Sani Sanileva and Brad Martin, while PURC Director of Rugby Wayne Pivac will contribute as a resource coach.

Both men come with championship pedigree, Sani leading our Under 21s to the Auckland title in 2023, while Brad headed the Under 85kg Panthers to the National Club Cup title last year.

Sani returns to Pakuranga and is looking forward to being back in green and orange.

“I’m excited to reconnect with all the players and also the members and management of the club, especially those players now playing prems that I have had involvement with since school grades.

“Dwayne has played the game at the highest level on the international stage so his experience and mana as a Head Coach will be awesome, Brad is an exciting, enthusiastic coach who has been successful with the 85s for several years and will bring a lot of energy. While being under the guidance of someone like Wayne Pivac is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Sani.

Brad echoed Sani’s sentiments about the make up of the coaching group.

“I’m looking forward to us all starting in new roles at the same time so we can build it together from the ground up. Dwayne being a club legend and centurion won a Gallaher as a player, Sani being the coach of the undefeated 2023 under 21 team and myself winning in the U85s last year, we all have an idea of what it takes to build a strong and winning culture so putting our minds together is exciting. With Wayne being a resource coach to all teams, it's a great opportunity for all teams to take the next step.”

Sani anticipates a big future for Pakuranga.

“Based on what I have seen, Pakuranga are shaping up to becoming a power house in the Auckland Competition over the next few years. If we can keep building off that foundation, then more aspiring rugby players will choose Pakuranga as their home hopefully grab some silverware with a lot of new connections and laughs along the way.”

Article added: Wednesday 24 September 2025