The New Zealand Warriors' trajectory under Andrew Webster has become clear. Since his arrival in 2023, the club has shifted toward a defined identity built on defence, patience, and work ethic.
That approach delivered a preliminary final in 2023, followed by a disappointing 2024 where the Warriors struggled to close games and fell out of finals contention.
In 2025, the Warriors responded. After a poor start to the season and heavy criticism following their Las Vegas loss to Canberra, they steadied. Defence tightened. Effort areas improved. For long stretches they sat inside the top four and looked every bit a finals side. Injuries ultimately told the story. Season ending injuries to Luke Metcalf and Mitch Barnett, combined with ongoing disruption to key forwards, saw the Warriors limp into the finals and exit early against Penrith.
Behind the scenes, the club's pathways system continued to deliver. The Warriors won the NSW Cup in 2025 and followed it up by claiming the Interstate Championship. They also claimed the Harold Matthews Cup in both 2024 and 2025, reinforcing the club's commitment to youth development and long term sustainability. Competition for spots is increasing, and that makes 2026 a defining season for several established players.
These are the five Warriors who must lift again if the club is to turn progress into genuine contention.
4. Tane Tuaupiki
Why his role is important?
Tane Tuaupiki remains one of the most exciting players on the Warriors' roster. In 2025, he played 14 matches for 10 wins and 4 losses. When given the fullback role early in the season, the Warriors won all three matches, with Tuaupiki producing strong metre counts, line breaks, and tackle breaks, including a 180 metre performance against Brisbane.
His speed, footwork, and willingness to back himself give the Warriors an attacking element few others can replicate.
What must improve?
Consistency and physical development remain the key areas. At 26 years old, Tuaupiki is entering his prime but must continue to add strength to handle week to week NRL football. Defensive positioning and repeat effort also need refinement.
Competition for backline spots is fierce, and maintaining a starting role will require sustained performance.
Why his improvement matters?
If Tuaupiki continues his upward trajectory, he has the potential to become a genuine top tier NRL fullback. His development could reshape the Warriors' backline and provide a long term attacking weapon capable of changing games.
I think you are harsh on Metcalf.
If he can recover from injury to be anywhere near last year’s performance, then there is nothing to complain about.
Improvement is not necessarily a bad thing. All need to play better but some are more critical to the scoreboard and outcomes. After reading the write up it’s more about Metcalfe getting to full fitness to play close to his best with a bit more improvement in his kicking game. He’s a huge talent and if he gets it right, the Warriors are right in the mix.