Martin’s Continued Contribution to the Warriors
Te Maire Martin, the One New Zealand Warriors halfback, has extended his contract with the club, committing to stay until the end of the 2027 NRL season. This new agreement adds another year to his current deal, which had previously been extended for the 2026 campaign.
Martin’s journey this season began with a delayed start due to a broken leg. However, he has since played a crucial role, stepping into the halfback position for the Warriors’ last six matches. His return followed an injury to Tanah Boyd, whose season concluded early in May during the Magic Round clash against the Broncos due to an ACL knee injury.
Andrew McFadden, the One New Zealand Warriors general manager of recruitment, pathways, and development, expressed satisfaction with Martin’s extension. McFadden highlighted Martin’s contributions, noting his ability as a player, his attitude, passion for the game, and his determination to overcome challenges. Since joining the club in 2023, Martin has been a key contributor.
In his six appearances this season, Martin has demonstrated his impact on the field. He has scored four tries, provided seven try assists, made five line breaks, and recorded 19 tackle breaks. His average performance includes 91 metres gained and 23 tackles per game.
Andrew Webster, the One New Zealand Warriors head coach, also shared his confidence in Martin. Webster described Martin as a team-first player who is always willing to assist when needed. He praised Martin’s seamless transition into the halfback role after Boyd’s injury, despite his own late start to the season.
Martin has overcome various setbacks throughout his career. Last year, he reached his 100th NRL career appearance. He is also set to play his 50th game for the One New Zealand Warriors in their round 20 match against the Dragons at Go Media Stadium on July 18.
Career Highlights and Player Profile
Born on October 2, 1995, in Tokoroa, NZ, Martin’s junior club was Turangawaewae. He is capable of playing in multiple positions, including halfback, standoff, and fullback. His previous clubs include the Penrith Panthers (2016-2017), North Queensland Cowboys (2017-2019), and Brisbane Broncos (2022).
Martin made his NRL debut for Penrith against Brisbane at Panthers Stadium in Penrith on March 19, 2016, during Round 3. His Warriors debut was against Newcastle at Sky Stadium in Wellington on March 3, 2023, in Round 1, where he wore the Warriors No. 274 jersey.
Throughout his NRL career from 2016-2019 and 2022-2026, Martin has made 116 appearances. This includes 13 games for the Penrith Panthers (2016-2017), 42 games for the North Queensland Cowboys (2017-2019), and 13 games for the Brisbane Broncos (2022). For the One New Zealand Warriors, he has played 48 games between 2023-2026.
Martin has accumulated 97 NRL points, consisting of 24 tries and 1 field goal. On the representative stage, he has played 6 Tests for the Kiwis from 2016-2025 and has also represented the Māori All Stars in 2024 and 2026.
Dallin Watene-Zelezniak’s Extension and Impact
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 see him complete an eight-year tenure with the club. He recently marked his 100th NRL game in Warriors colours, becoming the 33rd player to achieve this milestone.
Watene-Zelezniak is currently ranked third among the top try-scorers in the NRL, with 16 tries in 15 outings this year. His career encompasses 243 NRL games, including stints with the Warriors, Bulldogs, and Panthers, where he made his debut in 2014.
The Hamilton-born player had a notable season in 2023, where he was named Dally M Winger of the Year after scoring 24 tries in 20 games for the Warriors. His try against the Dolphins on Sunday brought his total try tally for the club to 75, giving him a strike rate of 0.75 tries per game among the club’s leading try scorers.
Webster praised Watene-Zelezniak as a true professional and a significant asset to the club, highlighting his passion and role model status for younger players. Watene-Zelezniak is averaging 139 metres per game this season, with 12 line breaks and 33 tackle breaks, contributing to the Warriors’ second-place position on the ladder. He is expected to be named on the wing for the upcoming clash against the Wests Tigers at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Friday.
Source: warriors.kiwi
