New Zealand Māori Hockey Life Members

Margi Kay – Hockey Legacy

Margi Kay has been a dedicated member of the hockey community since 1956, significantly impacting both local and Māori hockey. At 71, she remains an active player in club and New Zealand Masters hockey.

Key Contributions:

• Māori Hockey Advocacy: Margi is a passionate supporter of Māori Hockey, instrumental in establishing Tai Tokerau Māori Hockey and advocating for its relevance to future generations.
• Player Development: She provides vital support to players through equipment and sponsorship and holds various roles, including player, coach, manager, and committee member.
• Leadership: As a member of the NZ Māori Hockey Kaunihera, she contributes to governance and strategic planning, utilizing her knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Dedication: Since 1990, Margi has consistently served Māori Hockey, playing a vital role in its promotion and growth.

Impact: Margi has profoundly influenced young female hockey players, nurturing talent and mentoring aspiring athletes. Her contributions may not be fully documented, but she emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge to secure the sport’s legacy for future generations.

Joy Ripia has been a pivotal figure in NZ Māori Hockey since 2001, when she was appointed Secretary by Margaret Hiha. Over the years, Joy has been an active participant in NZ Hockey, making significant contributions to the community by coordinating fixtures for the NZ Māori Junior Hockey teams and lending her support to various national team events.

Recognized for her humility, Joy places a strong emphasis on acknowledging the achievements of others, showcasing a deep commitment to both her family and the Māori hockey community in her capacity as kaumatua for the NZ Māori Hockey.

Between 2009 and 2013, Joy took charge of travel arrangements for the NZ Māori teams competing in the Pacific Cup in Fiji, while also managing the women’s team. Her leadership during this period culminated in a remarkable Gold medal win in her final year.

Joy’s dedication and impact have not gone unnoticed; she has received three nominations for the NZ Māori Sports Awards, consistently reaching the finals. Her unwavering support and commitment to Māori hockey and its athletes make her an invaluable asset to the organization.

Aroha’s contributions to Waiariki Haupoi Māori and the wider community are a testament to her deep commitment to both the sport and her people. As the poutokomanawa (central pillar) of the region’s Māori hockey community, she has been instrumental in driving the growth and development of the sport in the rohe. Her leadership and passion are evident in her extensive history, which includes years of dedicated service on the Kunihera (committee) and her representation of the New Zealand Māori women’s team.

Her unique distinction as the only player to have competed in every Māori tournament since its inception in 1992 is a remarkable achievement, illustrating her unwavering dedication to the game. This is not just a reflection of her personal skill and determination, but also her strong connection to her community and her desire to uplift Māori hockey at all levels.

Beyond her playing career, Aroha has taken on the important roles of mentor and advocate, shaping the next generation of players and ensuring the legacy of Māori hockey continues to thrive. Her influence extends far beyond the field, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and the community she loves. Aroha’s legacy is one of leadership, service, and an enduring commitment to the development of Māori hockey.