New Batch of New Zealand Rugby Women’s Referee Scholarship Program Announced

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has announced the five successful recipients of its 2025 Women’s Referee Scholarship Programme, aimed at developing a new generation of female match officials across Aotearoa over the next two years.

The initiative builds on the success of the inaugural cohort and combines elite rugby knowledge with strong community ties.

Programme to Boost Development and Representation

Commenting on the announcement, NZR Women’s Referee Development Manager, Chelsea Cogger-Orr, said: “Building on the success of the first cohort, I’m really looking forward to working with these five wāhine as they begin their refereeing journey. They bring a huge range of first-class rugby experience, which will be a massive asset to them and to their communities.”

Each recipient will receive financial support, tailored coaching, and ongoing mentorship from Cogger-Orr. The programme is designed to integrate recipients into their provincial unions’ development pathways while building links with NZR’s national performance networks.

2025 Scholarship Recipients

The scholarship recipients are:

• Azania Watene (Counties Manukau)A seasoned halfback in the Farah Palmer Cup (FPC) since 2014, Azania is also a practising lawyer and a passionate supporter of women’s rugby at her local club, Pukekohe.
• Chey Robins-Reti (Bay of Plenty/Waikato)A triple-code athlete with international experience in 7s and 15s, Chey has represented the Black Ferns 7s, Black Ferns, and Kiwi Ferns. Her on-field decision-making and agility provide a strong foundation for her transition to officiating.
• Hayley Hutana (Canterbury) A former Black Ferns wider squad member and key player in Canterbury’s FPC success, Hayley brings deep tactical insight and an ability to read the game, skills that will support her refereeing progression.
• Kahurangi Sturmey (Manawatū) A forward for the Manawatū Cyclones and Hurricanes Poua, Kahurangi is a strong advocate for grassroots rugby. Her field presence and understanding of the game were standouts during her early refereeing assessments.
• Danielle Tippett (South Canterbury)A first five/midfield back for the South Island Heartland XV, Danielle is known for her leadership and work ethic. She has already begun mentoring other women entering refereeing in the region.

The Women’s Referee Scholarship Programme forms part of NZR’s broader strategy to increase visibility, opportunity, and excellence in women’s officiating. It reflects a continued investment in creating clear pathways for former players and aspiring referees to thrive at both community and elite levels.

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