The 2025 East Coast Farming Expo is a two-day gathering (February 19-20) for sheep and beef producers, focusing on farming smarter. The annual event includes exhibits, outdoor demonstrations and seminars. It’s a chance for farmers to talk one-on-one with industry innovators and leaders and has become a go-to for the
League legend Nikau to speak at East Coast Farming Expo
Gisborne Herald
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Rugby league star Tawera Nikau lost a leg from complications after a motorcycle accident in 2004 but overcame that to return to the sport in a coaching role and is now the president of New Zealand Rugby League. Photo / Alan Gibson
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But at the very heart of all that drives him, is family.
“Everyone goes through tough times, but for me, having some focus in your children and the next generation is key,” he says.
“I had a great family upbringing and as you get a bit older you start to think about what your parents said to you when you were growing up — not that you listened at the time — about respect and family values.”
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He grew up in a farming community that taught him about people, community and helping.
“I love speaking at events like the Expo because it is talking to like-minded people and sharing our stories … everyone has a story.
“Community starts at home for me. There are always challenges to get through, but what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”
Nikau encourages farmers to take time for themselves, and most importantly, always have someone to talk to.
“Most Kiwi men don’t like talking about stuff, but it is important to put your hand up and ask for help when you need it. My coach got me to go to counselling. I resisted it — like a typical male — but I had to go and I know I wouldn’t be in this space if it wasn’t for someone coming along and helping.”
Nikau is heavily involved in his whānau farms in the Waikato, including dairy and cropping farms, and they’re now developing a solar farm.
All the farms are close by and he visits them daily.
“My life has come full circle.”
He always knew he would come home. His grandmother had a vision about what he would do and be, and everything she predicted has come true.
“I am now back on the land where I was brought up by her.”
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Nikau’s world changed dramatically in 2003 when he lost a leg following complications from a motorbike accident.
It took him on a different journey to his high-performance sport world, but one that has been hugely rewarding.
He is an ambassador for the Achilles Foundation, which gives people with disabilities an opportunity to take part in mainstream events.
He has done the New York Marathon three times and completed the Oxfam 100km Taupo Trail Walker, raising funds for the charity.
Nikau was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (2006) for services to rugby league and the community, and was recognised as an emerging leader by the Sir Peter Blake Trust (2011).
He’s looking forward to his trip to Wairoa, which will include a visit to his aunt.
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“I am excited to see her and connecting with the local community.”
And he says if one person walks away from his chat with a few takeaways that can help, then that’s a big win.
Nikau will be attending the two-day Wairoa event courtesy of Gisborne-based Corson Maize.
For more information on the Expo, go to eastcoastexpo.co.nz
- Diana Dobson is a freelance writer for the East Coast Farming Expo