Tuara steps in to boost rugby reach

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Tuara. Picture: OCEANIA RUGBY

Oceania Rugby has appointed Harriet Tuara as its new communications and visibility lead as it strengthens efforts to promote Pacific rugby ahead of the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup and the 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Tuara joins the organisation at a key time and will lead initiatives aimed at increasing the visibility of Pacific rugby through strategic storytelling, media partnerships and communications support for member unions across the region.

She will also oversee programmes that strengthen communications capability, monitoring and evaluation, while helping member unions share authentic Pacific rugby stories.

Oceania Rugby’s General Manager, Frank Puletua, welcomed the appointment, saying Tuara’s experience and passion for the region would help strengthen the way Pacific rugby is represented.

“We are delighted to welcome Harriet to Oceania Rugby. This is an important investment in the future of Pacific rugby storytelling and representation,” Puletua said.

Tuara brings extensive experience in communications, media, digital storytelling and sports development across the Pacific.

She has also served as vice president of the Cook Islands Rugby Union, where she helped create more opportunities for women and girls in rugby.

She said she was honoured to join Oceania Rugby and contribute to growing the game’s profile across the Pacific.

“Pacific rugby is built on strong cultures, communities and stories that deserve to be seen and heard. I am excited to help amplify Pacific voices and strengthen communications across the region,” she said.

Tuara will work closely with Oceania Rugby, World Rugby, andPacific member unions and other stakeholders.

Her work in this role will ensure Pacific rugby stories continue to be told by Pacific people.