On 29 April, the MBC First XV marked a special occasion as Rangitāne o Wairau (kaitiaki iwi of Marlborough Boys’ College) gifted the team a Tewhatewha to launch the 2026 season.

The taonga was formally presented by trustee Keelan Walker and iwi member Kiley Nepia, reflecting a deep connection to Te Riu o Wairau.

The tinana is carved from kānuka, the rapa from whale bone, and the puhipuhi combines toroā and kārearea feathers - symbols of strength, vision, and unity.

Keelan shared the kōrero of Te Hau, one of Rangitāne’s oldest tūpuna, whose presence remains in the whenua and the maunga now known as Te Hau (The Ned).

The notches on the rapa acknowledge whakapapa and an unbroken ahi kā, referencing the first fires lit at Wairau Bar. They also represent the six key waterways of the region: Waiau Toa (Clarence), Awatere, Waihopai, Ōpāoa, Wairau, and Te Hoiere (Pelorus) - each reflecting sustenance, knowledge, and life.

The taonga has been named “Te Kārearea a Hau”, a name that aligns strongly with both the kura (whose reo Māori ingoa is Te Rei Puta o Te Hau) and the First XV identity as the Kārearea. The team was encouraged to carry it with pride - as a unifying force and a reminder of who they represent wherever they travel.

Ngā mihi nui to Arpo Deer and Keelan Walker (carvers), and Shanell Kelly (weaver), with thanks to Kiley Nepia for the naming and cultural guidance. We also acknowledge Emma (Kārearea Falcon Trust) and Paora Mackie (Te Papa Atawhai / DOC) for their support in sourcing the feathers.

Wherever this team travels, they carry the mana of Wairau with them.