It’s been another great rugby league season for the Manurewa Marlins. The Premier men’s team had a fantastic second round, winning all four home games and securing a spot in the top four for the upcoming finals.
The Premier Reserves side has breezed through the season with only one loss and is sitting at the top of the ARL ladder for the Sharman Cup Reserve Grade heading into the finals.
After a slow start to the season, the women’s side has fought its way into third place on the Steele Shanks Premiership ladder, with one round-robin match remaining before the semi-finals.
And Woodside Bar Dining and Functions has been behind the teams all year, providing funds for team shirts and player of the day certificates.
Manurewa Marlins Premier Men’s Manager Cheryn He says the club has been fortunate to be supported by Woodside.
“The sponsorship has allowed the club to recognise our players, provide them with team apparel and show our appreciation to Woodside.”
Woodside has partnered with the Marlins for several seasons, previously providing game-day essentials such as electrolytes, water containers and tables. Cheryn says those items are still in regular use and have helped see the teams through another successful season.
“We’ve built a strong relationship with Woodside and Wiri Licensing Trust. It speaks volumes of their commitment to the community that they continue to contribute wherever possible, despite it being a tough economic climate for hospitality.”
On the women’s side of the club, sponsorship from Woodside has helped the team return to the competition after a year out.
“Beyond the team gear and the player recognition, having Woodside stand beside us has given us confidence, stability and a real sense of being valued as we step back onto the field,” Shannon Fenton says.
“It has helped us rebuild, reconnect and represent our club and Woodside with pride. We are so grateful to have them supporting our return.”
The goal for the rest of the season is to bring the women’s premiership trophy back to Manurewa. The players will then turn their attention to the Fiji 9s Paradise Tournament in November, where they will represent the club.
Woodside is the flagship hospitality venue for Wiri Licensing Trust and Community and Marketing Manager Sophie Rider says the team at the restaurant love being able to support local clubs.
“The Marlins are the biggest rugby league club in New Zealand but it’s more than just a sporting organisation. It’s a real pillar of the South Auckland community. The club is passionate about creating strong social and economic benefits for its members and their whānau.
“That’s community spirit we can really get behind. We’ll be cheering on all the teams for the final weeks of the 2026 season. Go Marlins.”
