Horowhenua-Kapiti Rugby Referees Association

The boys did us proud today!

A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO SAM & ASHTON!

What a fantastic achievement for two of our own!

After the hard work, growth and commitment they have both shown to refereeing, Sam and Ashton were rewarded with the opportunity to referee the Club Finals in which they both did an outstanding job and have now been selected as Assistant Referees (ARs) for the first Heartland Championship game of the 2026 season.

These opportunities don’t come by chance. They are a reflection of the time, effort, learning and dedication they continue to put into the game — both on and off the field.

We’re incredibly proud to see them representing themselves and us at this level. They are a great example of where hard work, commitment and a willingness to keep learning can take you.

Well deserved, Sam and Ashton!
Keep pushing, keep growing and keep enjoying the game.

From everyone — congratulations & well earnt!

Behind the Whistle, featuring Ashton Foote

Fun Fact Friday......! Featuring Sam Taylor!

Finals Day Team

Tomorrow’s finals wouldn’t be possible without our Assistant Referees. Thank you for your commitment, teamwork, and support of our referees throughout the season.

Enjoy the occasion, trust your instincts, and have a great day out there. Good luck to everyone involved! 🏉

Congratulations, Sam Taylor, on your appointment to referee the Premier Final. A well-deserved achievement and recognition of all the hard work you’ve put in this season.

This weekend we head into Finals.....

Congratulations Ashton Foote on this appointment!

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/rotorua-daily-post/news/whakatane-football-referee-colin-harrison-still-blowing-the-whistle-at-84/ECEYM24CBVCUFEKS6D2XD4TONM/

An 84-year-old ref still giving his weekends to the beautiful game Referee numbers have plunged from about 14 in the 1970s to only four today.