Family Nudge Leads Mererangi Paul to Black Ferns Stardom

A pivotal decision to follow her whānau’s advice has cemented Mererangi Paul as a powerhouse in New Zealand rugby. On 26 June 2026, RNZ reported on the athlete’s rapid rise, noting that the talent now regarded as one of world rugby’s most lethal runners almost walked away from professional sport altogether. A former netball prodigy at Auckland’s St Kentigern College, Paul made her ANZ Premiership debut for the Northern Mystics in 2017. However, a serious knee injury in Whakatāne left her at a career crossroads. Paul told RNZ she had lost her passion for netball and was searching for direction when her parents encouraged her to join her younger sister at a sevens training session. Although she had only played touch rugby growing up, the switch to the contact game proved life-changing. Now with 17 tests for the Black Ferns, Paul has joined the Blues for the 2026 season after three years with Chiefs Manawa. Her versatility has been on full display, moving from fullback to wing and now centre to support the team’s bid for a third straight title. Despite the competitive environment alongside stars like Braxton Sorensen-McGee and Katelyn Vaha'akolo, Paul remains focused on constant improvement. She noted the benefit of playing alongside veterans like Ruahei Demant, whose extensive knowledge of the game helps push the squad to higher standards. Reflecting on her upbringing as one of seven siblings, Paul attributed her success to a tight-knit and competitive household. While she joked that she may no longer be the absolute fastest in her family, she credited this support system as a major factor in her international career. Under the guidance of coach Whitney Hansen, Paul continues to uphold the Black Ferns standard, taking the season game by game while building stronger connections with her new Blues teammates.