Māori All Blacks Squad Unveiled at Ōrākei Marae for Upcoming Japan Tour

AUKILANI — The Māori All Blacks have officially launched their international campaign with a squad announcement at Ōrākei Marae in Auckland. Head coach Tamati Ellison revealed the 26-man roster on Monday, 22 June 2026, marking a significant milestone for the team as they prepare to represent New Zealand on the global stage. According to a report by RNZ, the squad features a strategic mix of experienced campaigners and fresh talent. Coach Ellison has included six uncapped players in the lineup, providing an opportunity for a new generation of Māori athletes to wear the jersey and contribute to the team's legacy. The gathering at the marae served as a grounded cultural start for the team before their scheduled flight to Japan. In addition to the rugby developments, the Te Ao Māori region is celebrating housing milestones. RNZ reported on 21 June 2026 that a new social housing development on Tuki Street in Porirua is nearing full capacity. Te Āhuru Mōwai chief executive James Te Puni noted that ten new homes have been established to support the local community, with three whānau already moved into the development. Further south, the restoration of a significant cultural monument has received a substantial financial boost. The statue of celebrated Moriori leader Tommy Solomon on Rēkohu, the Chatham Islands, was awarded a $60,000 grant from the Rātā Foundation on 17 June 2026. The funding marks a major milestone for the project, which honours Solomon as a figure who embodied the core values of Moriori culture.