"This experience has allowed me to develop different skills around planning and managing of projects and people," he said.
While he doesn't have a lot of rugby league experience, he does have a lot of coaching behind him.
"Coaching began for me when my boys first played soccer for Hibiscus Coast in the early 2000s.
"I didn't know much about the sport, but enjoyed every minute of it," he said.
"As they got older and played different sports, I found my coaching skills developed with them.
"The pinnacle of my coaching career to date was winning national squash club titles in 2013 and 2014."
Rugby League Northland has just wrapped up a successful club season where Takahiwai took out the Scott Electrical Premiership, beating Otangarei 18-16.
Tana said he was looking forward to the challenge of being the new development manager.
"I am passionate about Northland and Northland sport. The opportunity to develop and grow rugby league in Northland excites me and is a challenge I am looking forward to," he said.
"I believe 'More than just a Game' holds key guiding principles to showcase all that is great about rugby league to the Northland community."
Meanwhile, Portland Panthers player Mike Salase has picked up the club player of the year award at the inaugural RLN Senior delegates prizegiving.
Premiership winners Takahiwai were rewarded with two player awards, with Mike Hauraki and Kyle Hool winning best forward and best back respectively.
Otangarei's Shaquille Ormsby took home the best rookie award.
