Te Whanganui a Tara Maori Rugby League was established in 1993 to develop pathway opportunities in an environment that nurtures player aspirations and celebrates being Maori through the game of rugby league. Participating in the national Maori tournament has enabled players, with the support of their families, an opportunity to build confidence in their cultural identity and to learn fundamental rugby league skills.

The environment is based on Sir Mason Durie's Te Whare Tapawha Model, which compares hauora to the four walls of a whare, with each wall representing a different dimension, each necessary for strength and symmetry. Therefore, we are supporting tamariki to be strong, resilient and balanced in each aspect.

​​​​​​​Te Whanganui a Tara is a well-established community-spirited ropu/group with several successful players having come through the Maori Nationals over the years, most notably:Hakaraia Ngatoro – St George Dragons, Western Bay Rep. Named in the NZMRL Tamariki team in 2016 and 2017Jordan Chapma – St George DragonsTaimakau Pikia – Randwick Kingfishers, Hutt Valley Rep. Named in the NZMRL Tamariki team in 2016