Warriors’ appreciation

On Friday 22 September, former New Zealand Warriors players Talite Liavaa and Nigel Vagana presented a signed 2023 Warriors jersey to the Hawke’s Bay District in recognition of their mahi during the Cyclone Gabrielle response.

Talite (T), who is a career firefighter, was based at Timaru Fire Station when the 6.3M earthquake struck on 22 February 2011. He knows first-hand the challenges emergency responders face in a natural disaster.  

‘You’re out there saving lives and property, but you’re also concerned about your own family and wellbeing. That’s in the back of your mind. You’re also trying to keep yourself and your crew safe,’ T said.

‘A natural disaster doesn’t just happen for an hour or so, it’s months and months of work and living in that environment.’

T is now a Station Officer at the Devonport Fire Brigade in Auckland. He was the driving force behind the presentation and worked hard during a hectic time for the Warriors to organise the signed jersey, ball and poster.

Hawke’s Bay District Manager Glen Varcoe says, ‘The jersey will be proudly displayed in the entranceway to the District office as a reminder of support for our people. It’s a great conversation starter for people coming into the office and helps build a connection to our community’.

In addition to Nigel’s and T’s support, Warriors captain Tohu Harris, who himself is from Hawke’s Bay, also sent a short video message to our people in the District: