Tawera Nikau

BLAKE Leader 2011

Managing Director, Team One Corporate Development.

Tawera Nikau made his name in the highly competitive world of rugby league. A veteran of 19 tests for New Zealand as a forward, Tawera went on to captain the New Zealand Maori team at the Rugby League World Cup and has since been inducted into the New Zealand Legends of League.

In 2004 he had his right leg amputated and the traits that made him a sporting champion enabled him to excel in other areas. In 2010 he finished the New York City Marathon and recently completed the Oxfam 100km Taupo race which raised funds for African Villagers. He spends time visiting new amputees in hospital giving hope that life is not over just because you’ve lost a limb.

Tawera’s passion and contribution to league continues, working with the NZRL as a New Zealand Selector and assisting with the Junior Development Program. Tawera seeks opportunities to further develop Maori as CEO of Aotearoa Construction, and with a vision to pioneer a business model that blends profit with social benefit, whilst delivering outstanding construction services.

Tawera is also Managing Director and owner of Team One Corporate Development, a training company that strives towards “Unleashing Human Potential”. His experience and knowledge in elite sport teams over the years has given him a great insight in to succeeding at the highest level, and how to lead winning teams.