Kalyn Takitimu-Cook

Kalyn Takitimu-Cook signed for the Warriors for the 2025 and 202 seasons.

Another player making the switch from rugby union, she has played in the Farah Palmer Cup for the Manawatu Cyclones and the Bay of Plenty Volcanix while she made three appearances for the Hurricanes Poua in Super Rugby Aupiki in 2024.

A member of New Zealand’s gold medal-winning sevens rugby team at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, she tried her hand at rugby league last year with the Richmond Roses and helped the Akarana Falcons to victory in the New Zealand Rugby League’s national premiership.

Head coach Ron Griffiths on Takitimu-Cook: “Kalyn took the leap and switched to rugby league in season 2024. Her decision to commit to league ultimately paid dividends with her being rewarded with a contract.

"Her progression from the start of the year was fantastic. A real strength for Kalyn will be her ability to develop and play a multitude of positions due to her vast skillset. She has an uncanny knack of finding space; this and her attitude make her a great addition to our squad.”

Of her signing, Takitimu-Cook said: “I’m beyond excited to sign with the Warriors and represent my whānau.

“Ronald reached out to me a few months ago to share his vision for the Warriors and his plans for women's rugby league in New Zealand. From that first conversation, I knew I wanted to be part of it. He made me work for it over the following months, and I’m thrilled that I did!

“When I signed, my reaction was very emotional – I was at a loss for words and just gave Ron a big hug. Now I’m simply looking forward to what lies ahead.

“It’s an honour to be part of the Warriors' return to the NRLW, and I’m proud to represent my whānau and everyone who has supported me along the way. The chance to play in the best competition in the world while staying close to my whānau is huge for me.

“While my background is mostly in union, rugby league runs deep on my Nuna's side of the whānau. I’m a proud product of Manukura, a Māori kura kaupapa in Palmerston North, but I was born and raised in Papakura.

“In union, I played first-five, fullback and wing, and in the NZRL Premiership this year, I played wing and fullback. Ron sees me as a utility player and I’m happy to contribute wherever the team needs me.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Ron for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I can’t wait to connect with the team in the new year and put in the hard work during preseason.”