One New Zealand Warriors rookie prop Ivana Lauitiiti has gone from a development contract to a two-year NRLW deal after being signed until the end of the 2027 season.
It caps an extraordinary season which has seen her named the club’s NRLW Rookie of the Year and recognised with the NRLW Dally M Tackle of the Year award at last night’s Dally M Medal presentation in Sydney.
With injury and unavailability biting into the Warriors’ playing resources Lauitiiti was called up to make her NRLW debut in the round five clash against North Queensland in Newcastle on August 3, the day after her 19th birthday.
The Ōtāhuhu Leopards junior marked the occasion with an outstanding display including a powerhouse try and big defensive plays, emulating her father and rugby league great Ali Lauitiiti who also scored a try on debut for the club in 1998; the Lauitiitis are the first father and daughter to represent the Warriors.
“Ivana burst onto the scene having a wonderful season and being named the One New Zealand Warriors’ Rookie of the Year,” said head coach Ron Griffiths.
Lauitiiti huge hit wins NRLW Dally M Tackle of the Year
“With a nonchalant demeanour she took everything in her stride, a devastating ball runner and explosive defender.
“Ivana is a key signing for our club, a Warrior for life.”
Accompanied by her father Ali at the Dally Ms last night, Lauitiiti was a shoo-in to win the Dally M Tackle of the Year for her huge shot on Wests Tigers winger Emily Bass in the club record 44-6 final round win earlier this month.
“Re-signing honestly means a lot. Coming from local grassroots footy it’s cool to show that you don’t have to move away to chase opportunities. I’m excited for the next two years,” said Lauitiiti.
“My debut season was pretty unexpected. I came in as a development player so making it into the playing squad was something I didn’t see coming.
“Big thanks to coach Ron for backing me and giving me a shot. I’ve learned heaps and I’m grateful to have had my first season with this team. I’m excited for what’s next.”
Born in Leeds when her father was playing for the Rhinos, Lauitiiti made six appearance this season – all off the bench – which saw her score two tries, average 105 metres a game and make 36 tackle breaks plus 71 tackles, many of them in the bone-jarring category as she instantly became one of the most feared defenders in the competition.
Profile | Ivana Lauitiiti
Born: August 2, June 5, 2006
Birthplace: Leeds, England
Club: Ōtāhuhu Leopards
Position: Prop
Height: 182cm
Weight: 105kg
Warriors NRLW No: 71
NRLW debut: One New Zealand Warriors v North Queensland Cowboys, McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle, August 3, 2025 (Rd 5)
NRLW career: 6 appearances (2025)
NRLW points: 8 (2 tries)
