Traditional Maori designs took centre stage at the 2017 NRL Auckland Nines jersey reveal with both the Warriors and Brisbane Broncos unveiling their new strips in Sydney today.
Players from all 16 NRL clubs assembled at NRL headquarters to model their new jerseys for the fourth edition of the short-form preseason tournament to be held at Eden Park over Waitangi Weekend February 4 and 5.
Traditional Maori designs took centre stage at the 2017 NRL Auckland Nines jersey reveal with both the Warriors and Brisbane Broncos unveiling their new strips in Sydney today.
Players from all 16 NRL clubs assembled at NRL headquarters to model their new jerseys for the fourth edition of the short-form preseason tournament to be held at Eden Park over Waitangi Weekend February 4 and 5.
The Broncos have followed the Warriors lead in incorporating Maori designs in their Nines jersey, which is mint green in colour in an eye-catching departure from their usual maroon and yellow strip.
The name of the jersey is 'Kakahu Tu Taua' which translates to mean battle garment. The Broncos will wear the jersey at the Nines and also when they travel to face the Warriors at Mt Smart Stadium in May.
The top designs are called Mourei (chest plate tattoo) which represent the Broncos 'War Party' (Brisbane Broncos) with rugby league a type of on-field battle.
The bottom spearhead designs represent all players that have represented the Broncos, and the relationship they forged in battle with their teammates.
Kiwis internationals Alex Glenn and Jordan Kahu had a hand in the look of the jersey which was partly inspired by the Chiefs Super Rugby shirts that have also incorporated Maori designs.
Alex Glenn wearing the Broncos 2017 Nines jersey. Photo / NRL Films
"The Nines is all about having fun and that's what we did with this jersey," Glenn explained.
"We took the initiative to really focus on the New Zealand culture because playing in Auckland it's got that feel to it.
"I'm definitely happy with the way it's come out and we are over the moon with the final product."
The pair consulted Ora Kihi, who previously designed the New Zealand Rugby League's Te Iwi Kiwi jersey, drawing on his knowledge and creative input.
"A big wrap to Ora for all of his work because he's really put in a lot of effort," he said.
"Knowing that we have a big fan base back home and having designs that are relevant to New Zealand culture is going to be a massive hit back there.
"The feedback we've been getting is all positive."
Ryan Hoffman models the 2017 Warriors jersey. Photo / NRL Films
Warriors captain Ryan Hoffman was on hand to show off the 'Te Toka Tu Toa' jersey which features Maori design with natural rock-inspired graphics.
The design continues the theme of incorporating natural elements into the Nines kit, like 2016's 'Spirit of the Warrior' and 2015's 'Tangaroa'.
Hoffman admitted to struggling with pronouncing the name but had a clear understanding of the jersey's meaning and significance.
"Unfortunately I can't say it - I've been in New Zealand a couple of years, but it means 'the Warrior rock always endures and the Warrior rock will always stand'," said Hoffman. "That's my take on it.
"Everyone loves seeing the new jerseys because teams always come up with something special.
"What you saw with the Broncos too, teams are showing a bit of personality with their jerseys, and that just adds to the excitement of the tournament."
The Sydney Roosters boasted another standout design, with back-rower and former Warrior, Sio Siua Taukeiaho, modelling their Bondi Beach- themed jersey, which features a bright blue graphic of the iconic stretch of sand and the Bondi Pavilion.
Meanwhile, Gold Coast Titans and former NFL star Jarryd Hayne will again break new ground with confirmation he will wear jersey number 38 at the Nines.
Hayne made the 38 number his own during his stint with the San Francisco 49ers with his NFL shirt proving hugely popular with fans in both the US and Australia.
NRL officials gave the thumbs up to Hayne donning the digits once more in what will be his debut Nines appearance.
2017 Downer NRL Auckland Nines - Eden Park, Saturday & Sunday February 4&5 -All 16 NRL clubs together in Auckland -Two-day knock-out tournament -Featuring 288+ star players -Superstars Johnathan Thurston, Jarryd Hayne and Shaun Johnson the first to confirm they will play -31 action packed games -More speed! More tries! More fun! -9 players per team, 9 minute halves -NZ $2.6 million dollars + in prize money -Over 80,000 fans expected over 2 days
