The Paikea Whalers came in a close second. They were unbeaten, and defeated the eventual winners, but a couple of draws cost them dearly in the points calculation.
Tamihere said there had been nothing but “wonderful feedback” on the day.
“It was such a great whanau atmosphere,” she said.
“There were a lot of first-timers and new players in every club. It was a great day.
“Thank you to everyone behind the scenes and all the whanau who came and made the day special.”
Tournament MVP (most valuable player) Levi Kemp said he jumped at the opportunity to play in the tournament.
He is originally from Gisborne but moved away almost a decade ago and happened to be in town for his grandmother's birthday.
“Unfortunately I had never shared the field with him (Nate), but I have so many memories. He was our hardest brother, but also the cheekiest man. You'd hear that laugh a mile away.
“As for the MVP award, I'm humbled and honoured to have received it. But for me, it was playing alongside my brothers in the Falcons jersey and winning Nate's taonga for the very first time.”
Toru Noanoa was named the best forward, Ethine Reeves the best back and Tyrese Tuwairua-Brown the best rookie.
