Stacey Waaka (of Ngāi Tūhoe), born November 3, 1995  is a world champion New Zealand rugby union player and the newest Beef + Lamb New Zealand ambassador.

Growing up in a big whānau across Papakura, Melbourne, and Ruatoki, Stacey was a budding sports star from a young age. When she wasn’t playing elite-level netball, hockey or doing athletics she was making her mark on the rugby field. This eventually led her to playing on the world stage as a New Zealand touch youth international player at 15 years old, and winning the 2015 Junior Māori Sportswomen of the year.

But the mahi didn’t stop there… To date, Stacey has been an integral team player in several nationally recognised teams and has already experienced many unforgettable, emotional moments throughout her rugby career.

One of Waaka's most notable achievements was her vital role in the epic Rugby World Cup final. In a thrilling and closely contested match, Waaka showcased her exceptional skills, determination, and resilience, helping the team clinch the coveted World Cup title. Her performance not only solidified her status as a rugby superstar but also made a huge impact on the sport’s history.

Off the field, Waaka champions the values of hard work, determination, and teamwork, inspiring young women to pursue rugby. Her commitment to her Māori heritage is apparent in her advocacy for indigenous people's rights and increased representation in sports. We see Stacey as a true wāhine toa, role model and all round Kiwi legend!

We are delighted to have Stacey on-board to help share all the “Good things” New Zealand Beef + Lamb can bring to the table and to your life…

5 facts about Stacey

• Her favourite meal is lamb chops.

• She spent part of her childhood living on her grandmother’s farm in Ruatoki. One Christmas when the family were visiting she apparently didn’t want to leave, which led to her parents deciding to permanently move there.

• She has a Bachelor of Health, Sport and Human Performance and a Post Graduate Diploma in Business.

• Her nickname during the 2018-19 rugby season was “The Smiling Assassin”.

• Her brother Beaudein Waaka is also a well-regarded rugby player who has played both nationally and internationally.