Article added: Tuesday 13 January 2026

The beauty of the NRL All Stars kaupapa lies in its depth of purpose. Beyond the celebration of culture and the spotlight it places on elite players, it creates meaningful opportunities for our kaimahi – the football staff and administrators - to be involved, to grow, and to have their time to shine in a moment that resonates far beyond the field.

Over the years, the men’s Māori All Stars team has been privileged to be led by world-class coaches - most of whom are Māori. To date, our men’s All Stars coaches have been Stacey Jones, David Kidwell, Benny Gardiner and Adam Blair. It is alineup rich in experience, leadership and mana.  

Add to that assistant coaching roles filled by the likes of Issaac Luke, Blake Greenand, Nathan Cayless, and the depth of knowledge and cultural connection becomes even more impressive. These former Kiwis and Māori representatives giving back tothe kaupapa exemplify what All Stars is truly about. It is exceptional, and it matters.

The NRL maintains clear criteria and expectations for all team personnel - coaches, managers, head trainers, doctors and the broader management group. As ANZMRL chair John Devonshire explains, these standards must be met. “We are obligated to adhere to these requirements,” he says. “However, where we can, we are constantly promoting our people from back home, trying to upskill them and provide opportunities within the All-Stars environment.

”This commitment is deeply personal. “One of my proudest moments is seeing people come through from grassroots football, like me, and gain an experience they will treasure for life.

”A heartfelt example of this pathway is Daryn Pirini (Daz), long-time Auckland Māori coach and New Zealand Māori Residents coach. Pirini began his All-Stars journey as logistics manager - a role he jokingly describes as ‘bagman’ on day one. Through dedication and growth, he has elevated to the role of team manager.

Jason Sayers is another example, hailing from Pikiao Rugby League, Te Arawa, and having played an important role in multiple All-Stars campaigns.

Importantly, our wāhine team has also been guided by outstanding leadership, with coaches such as Victor Heke, Rusty Matua and Keith Hanley, and John Strange, playing pivotal roles in its growth and success.

These stories reflect the true legacy of the Māori All Stars: not just excellence on the field, but the deliberate nurturing of people, culture and opportunity off it. Long may it continue.

DARYN PIRINI (MANAGER)

Kurahaupo te waka
Ongaro te maunga
Rotokakahi te awa
Morehu te marae
Te Uri o Tai te hapu
Te Rarawa te iwi

Last 5 years
2021-2022 Aotearoa NZ Maori All Stars Logistics Co-Ordinator
2022-2026 Aotearoa NZ Maori All Stars Football Manager
2021-2025 ANZMRL Selector (Rangatahi)

What All Stars means to me:  Being a part of Maori All stars from its inception in 2019 has always been a huge honour and privilege. To witness the growth of players some who had no or very limited understanding of whakapapa, Tikanga is probably what I take most out of these weeks. Most look from the outside in and probably most will not understand, but to be immersed inthe week we all get it and that’s what makes us Maori.

Aspirations for the week:  To deliver the best possible week for player’s and staff, and to showcase what we as Maori can achieve both on and off the field when Tikanga and Rugby league is our Kaupapa.

ADAM BLAIR (COACH)

Ko Panguru te maunga
Ko Ngatimanawa te marae
Ko Whakarapa te awa
Ko Hokianga te Moana 
Ko Ngatokimatawhaorua te waka 
Ko Te Rarawa me Ngapuhi toku Iwi

Last 5 years
Warriors SG ball Coach 23
NSW cup Assistant coach 24
Kiwis assistant coach 24/25
All Stars assistant coach 23
All Stars head coach 24
Current Newcastle Knights Academy Coach and Male Pathways coaching Director 

What All Stars means to you:  It’s a place of purpose not only for me but everyone involved. An opportunity to showcase our culture on the biggest stage. To role model and encourage our next generation of Maori talent and embrace who we are. To allow our boys to express themselves and to continue their journeys in Te Ao Maori. 

Aspirations for All Stars week:  To create an environment of leadership, success and growth within each other, through our actions.