Martin’s Continued Contribution to the Warriors
Te Maire Martin, the One New Zealand Warriors halfback, has extended his contract with the club, securing his presence until the conclusion of the 2027 NRL season. This new agreement adds another year to his previous one-year extension signed for the 2026 campaign. Martin, who was born in Tokoroa, NZ, and is a product of the Turangawaewae junior club, has been a key figure for the Warriors since joining in 2023.
General Manager of Recruitment, Pathways, and Development, Andrew McFadden, expressed satisfaction with Martin’s extension. McFadden highlighted Martin’s ability as a player and his exemplary attitude, passion for the game, and determination in overcoming challenges. Martin’s career has seen him play for several clubs, including the Penrith Panthers from 2016-2017, the North Queensland Cowboys from 2017-2019, and the Brisbane Broncos in 2022, before making his debut for the Warriors in 2023.
Martin’s journey to this contract extension has involved overcoming various setbacks. He made his NRL debut for Penrith against Brisbane on March 19, 2016. Last year, he achieved his 100th NRL career appearance. He is also set to play his 50th game for the Warriors in their Round 20 match against the Dragons at Go Media Stadium on July 18.
Performance and Impact on the Field
After a delayed start to the current season due to a broken leg, Martin seamlessly stepped into the halfback role for the Warriors’ last six matches. This move followed an ACL knee injury to Tanah Boyd during the Magic Round clash against the Broncos in May, which ended Boyd’s season.
In his six appearances this season, Martin has demonstrated strong offensive contributions, scoring four tries and providing seven try assists. He has also made five line breaks and 19 tackle breaks, while averaging 91 metres and 23 tackles per game. His performance has been crucial for the team, with head coach Andrew Webster commending his team-first approach and his love for the game.
Webster noted Martin’s seamless transition into the halfback position despite his late start to the season. He praised Martin’s willingness to help the team in any capacity. Martin’s profile indicates his versatility, having played as a halfback, standoff, and fullback. He has accumulated 97 NRL points from 24 tries and one field goal throughout his career.
Dallin Watene-Zelezniak’s Extension and Contributions
In related news, winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has also extended his stay with the One New Zealand Warriors until the end of the 2028 NRL season. This extension will mark his eighth year with the club. Watene-Zelezniak recently celebrated his 100th NRL game in Warriors colours, becoming the 33rd player to reach this milestone for the club during the Round 17 clash against the Dolphins.
Watene-Zelezniak, born in Hamilton, NZ, has been a prolific try-scorer, currently ranking third in the NRL for tries this season with 16 tries in 15 outings. His career includes stints with the Bulldogs and the Panthers, where he debuted in 2014. He had a career-best season in 2023, scoring 24 tries in 20 games for the Warriors and being named Dally M Winger of the Year.
His try against the Dolphins brought his total try tally for the Warriors to 75, giving him a strike rate of 0.75 tries per game, which is among the best for the club’s leading try scorers. Watene-Zelezniak is averaging 139 metres per game this season, with 12 line breaks and 33 tackle breaks, contributing to the Warriors maintaining their second-place position on the ladder. He is expected to be named on the wing for the Warriors’ upcoming match against the Wests Tigers at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Friday.
Andrew McFadden also commended Watene-Zelezniak, describing him as a true professional and a significant asset to the club. McFadden highlighted his passion and role model status for young players. Head coach Andrew Webster echoed these sentiments, appreciating Watene-Zelezniak’s energy and fearlessness on the field, as well as his dedication as a family man. Watene-Zelezniak has represented the Kiwis in 13 Tests from 2016-2022 and the Māori All Stars in 2020-2021 and 2026.
Source: warriors.kiwi
