Rugby union international Huriwai signs NRLW deal
New Zealand-born Australian rugby union international
Jasmin Huriwai has been signed by the One New Zealand Warriors for the 2026 NRLW season.
The 32-year-old Auckland-born halfback, who moved to Australia at a young age, has been in the Brumbies’ Super Rugby side for the past three seasons and has played six Tests for the Wallaroos since her debut in 2023.
One New Zealand Warriors NRLW head coach Ron Griffiths was impressed by lengths Huriwai went to in her quest for a contract.
“Jay made a significant personal sacrifice by moving herself from Australia of her own volition,” he said.
“In our initial discussion there were no guarantees that she would secure an NRLW contract only an opportunity to play in the Kath Wharton and possibly secure a contract.
We are elated she has earned her opportunity, and the sacrifice she has made speaks volumes for her character
Ron Griffiths, One New Zealand Warriors NRLW head coach
“Jay’s resolve to succeed has paid her back. We are elated she has earned her opportunity, and the sacrifice she has made speaks volumes for her character.”
Huriwai said she was overwhelmed when she learned she had a deal.
“Very emotional. When Ron told me he said it in a very subtle way and it took me a bit to process it,” she said.
“My partner was with me and she was nudging me like she knew what he said and then I just started bawling my eyes out, and, yeah, pretty much cried that whole day.”
Huriwai’s manager and former Warrior
Tyran Smith had put her in contact with Griffiths.
“He sent my details to Ron and then Ron gave me a call, we spoke briefly but he pretty much said he liked my style of footy and then asked if I wanted to come to New Zealand and play in the Kath Wharton tournament,” said Huriwai.
“He didn’t make it easy for me, Ron, but he did say that he wanted to see what and who I am about. I appreciate him for that, though. It made me even hungrier to want to make it.”
Making the decision to switch from rugby union to rugby league was straightforward.
“It wasn’t a tough call honestly. The only tough part about it was packing up my whole life in Australia to take a chance in New Zealand as this wasn’t a guaranteed signing,” said Huriwai.
“I thank my partner for trusting in the process as she was the one who pushed me to take this opportunity with both hands and run with it. Enjoy every moment and have fun she said.”
After some initial fears, Huriwai said she is revelling in being in New Zealand.
I’ve lived in Australia for a long time and, at first, I was nervous and scared because I’ve never been in New Zealand for longer than two weeks since moving to Australia
Jasmin Huriwai, One New Zealand Warriors NRLW signing
“I’ve lived in Australia for a long time and, at first, I was nervous and scared because I’ve never been in New Zealand for longer than two weeks since moving to Australia.
“But now, since being here, I’ve loved every single moment. Being back has felt like a long holiday and I’m just enjoying every bit. Loving the food, seeing my family and fishing would be my favourite thing here. I would do it every day if I could. But honestly, I can't wait to play, I’m so keen!
“Just want to thank Ron and his amazing wife for giving me this opportunity and taking a chance on me. I can’t wait to get out there and do my thing.
“Also, to my beautiful partner Harmony, thank you for being there for me even when I doubt myself. You always pull through and make everything better.”
The One New Zealand Warriors start preseason training next month before kicking off their season against the Bulldogs in Hamilton on July 5.
Profile | Jasmin Huriwai
Born: September 27, 1993
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Junior club: Canley Heights Dragons, NSW
Position: Halfback
Height: 168cm
Weight: 70kg
Rugby union career:
Super Rugby: 16 appearances for Brumbies (2023-2025)
Representative: 6 Tests for Wallaroos (2023-2025)
