NRLW star Harata Butler returns to Tūrangawaewae to serve at Koroneihana

Professional athlete Harata Butler is trading the rugby league field for the wharekai this week, serving as a kaihāpai at Tūrangawaewae Marae for Koroneihana. The Warriors prop, known for her powerful presence on the field and her moko kauae, is among the army of workers ensuring the annual event runs smoothly in Ngāruawāhia as thousands gather to mark the second anniversary of the coronation of Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po. According to 1News, Butler has been a volunteer in Kimiora, the marae’s dining hall, since she was a teenager. Starting as a waitress, she has progressed through various roles to reach the serving bay, an aspiration she has held since childhood. Butler told 1News that the wharekai provided a foundational training ground for her life, teaching her patience and perseverance that she applies to her sporting career. Maintaining her commitment to the marae requires a significant balancing act. Butler, who also works as a youth transition worker for Mana Services, takes annual leave to attend the week-long celebration. She manages her schedule by assisting with breakfast and lunch service before travelling to Auckland for team training. Butler stated that regardless of her commitments as an NRLW player, returning to serve at Koroneihana remains a priority. The NRLW star expressed that her service is part of a multi-generational whānau legacy. She hopes her involvement will teach her son the importance of strengthening the whānau and upholding obligations to the Kiingitanga movement. As the celebrations continue, Butler remains focused on her dual roles: ensuring manuhiri are well looked after at Tūrangawaewae and fulfilling her professional duties for the Warriors on the field.