Netblacks head coach announced

The New Zealand Men’s and Mixed Netball Association (NZMMNA) has appointed Taz Tawhara to be the Head Coach of the New Zealand Open Men’s Netball team, the NetBlacks, commencing in January 2026. 

“I am pleased to announce Taz Tawhara’s appointment to the NetBlacks Head Coach role. Taz brings extensive experience at both domestic and international levels within both Netball New Zealand and New Zealand Men’s and Mixed.” Said Tania Anderson, NZMMNA President. 

A head coach at NZMMNA age-grade levels including both 23’s and 20’s, as well as a former title winning coach with the Fast 5 Net Blacks, Tawhara has extensive coaching experience within the Men’s and Mixed landscape which has culminated in this appointment leading the national Men’s netball team. 

“We had several high-quality candidates apply and it is a testament to Taz’s commitment to our international coaching pathways and her growth and development over the past few years that she has been able to secure this role.” 

“Taz has shown consistent commitment to our international player pathway and coaching programme across several years. We are excited to work with her as we look forward to 2028 and the first Men’s Netball World Cup which is our key focus over the next three years.” said Anderson. 

Accomplished in the women’s game also, Tawhara has won titles in Wellington’s domestic premier competition and has been recognized for her service by Wellington Netball Centre and was the recipient of Netball New Zealand’s Volunteer Coach of the Year award in 2024. 

“I am absolutely thrilled to be appointed to this role – a highlight in my coaching career. Over the past several years I have been privileged to develop and hone my coaching approach in the Men’s game, and I am excited to be given this opportunity to work towards the 2028 Men’s Netball World Cup as the NetBlacks head coach” said Tawhara. 

“The appointment process for this role was very robust and involved two interview rounds and also for the first time, included external psychometric testing, which further informed the appointment. NZMMNA is committed to ensuring robust appointment processes for our coaches moving forward.” concluded Anderon. 

Tawhara will step into the role immediately following completion of the 20’s and under squad tour to Singapore in January 2026. 

ENDS.