Rāhui’s premier rugby season has begun with a win, a draw and a loss in what were three closely contested matches.

Their first 2026 competition match, on March 21, saw them draw 14-14 with Levin College Old Boys at the Ōtaki Domain. Rāhui dominated the first 40 minutes and led 14-0 at half time.

The second half belonged to Levin Old Boys, however, and they levelled the scores with a try late in the match.

Frederick Moananu scored Rāhui’s first try and Barclay Cribb, playing in his premier debut, added a second. Barclay is the grandson of Horowhenua-Kāpiti Rugby Football Union chair John Cribb and son of Rāhui stalwart Brad Cribb.

Manupiri Rikihana and Leon Ellison added a conversion each.

Victory came for Rāhui in their second match when they defeated Paraparaumu 26-23 in a closely contested match at Paraparaumu Domain on March 28.

The closeness of the encounter was highlighted when the scores were tied 23-23 close to full time.

A last-minute penalty by Manupiri, who had earlier kicked a conversion, gave his team the victory.

Following his try in the first match, Barclay dotted down twice for Rāhui, and Morehu Connor-Phillips also scored a try.

Leon kicked two penalties.

Rāhui were leading their third game 24-23 over Waikanae late in the third match, played at Ōtaki Domain on Saturday (April 11).

However Waikanae scored a late try to win the match 30-24.

Waikanae opened the match strongly and established a good 18-5 lead late in the first half before a converted Rāhui try saw Waikanae with an 18-12 half time lead.

Frederick scored his third try of the season when he crossed the line twice.

Liam Tooman and Che Tohuri also dotted down.

Alizay Roach kicked two conversions.

Rāhui’s next match is against Wanderers at the Levin Domain on April 18, with a 2.45pm kick-off.