Paul van Etten. 25110414
In a bid to ensure international-level officiating at the Raro Rugby 7s International Tournament, the Cook Islands Rugby Union has once again brought in New Zealand-based referees. Paul van Etten, who has been supporting the tournament for over 20 years, explains what makes him and others keep coming back.
As one of the referees privileged to officiate at the Raro Rugby 7s 2025, I would like to extend my heartfelt acknowledgment to everyone who will be making this year’s tournament such an outstanding success.
First and foremost, a sincere thank you to the Cook Islands Rugby Union for hosting an event that not only celebrates our shared love of the game but also showcases the incredible talent and spirit of rugby across the Pacific. The standard of play, the sportsmanship and the cultural pride on display throughout the weekend will truly reflect the heart of our rugby community.
A special mention and deep appreciation must go to all the sponsors and partners, whose commitment and generosity make this event possible. Your continued investment in grassroots and elite rugby provides opportunities for players, referees and supporters alike to come together in the true spirit of the game.
To the volunteers, match officials, organisers and supporters, thank you for the countless hours and unwavering enthusiasm that ensured the smooth running of every match. Your energy and support from the sidelines created an atmosphere that players and officials will remember for years to come.
The Raro Rugby 7s 2025 is more than just a tournament – it’s a celebration pride, passion and world-class rugby talent. Over one action-packed weekend, fans will experience fast-paced sevens, vibrant island culture, live entertainment and the electric atmosphere that only Cook Islands rugby can deliver.
Come and cheer for your favourite teams, reconnect with the community and witness future stars of the game in action. Whether you’re a lifelong rugby fan or just love the energy of island sport, this is an event that brings everyone together – sun, sport and spirit all in one place.
Don’t just hear about it – be part of it!
It is an honour for us referees to be part of such a vibrant and competitive tournament – one that not only celebrates high-quality rugby but also strengthens the bonds.
On behalf of the refereeing team, meitaki ma‘ata to everyone who played a role – both on and off the field – in making the Raro Rugby 7s 2025 a true success. We look forward to returning next year and continuing to uphold the values of fairness, respect and passion that make rugby sevens such a special sport.
Paul van Etten
Paul van Etten (often referred to as “PVE”) is a highly respected and long‐serving match official affiliated with the Auckland Rugby Referees Association (ARRA). His career in refereeing Auckland club rugby spans many years, during which he has officiated 175 premier fixtures. Recently he has represented ARRA in governance including Auckland Rugby Union’s Council of Delegates. This year Paul was made a Life Member of the ARRA. Paul has been supporting the Raro Rugby 7s for over 20 years and looks forward to continuing to support this event.
Allen Keyte
Allen is an active match official with the Auckland Rugby Referees Association (ARRA), based in Auckland, New Zealand. He regularly officiates at club and school-rugby level in the Auckland region. Allen is actively involved in sideline management at NPC, Super and Test Match level. Allen currently is the chair of ARRA Board. Allen has been to the Raro Rugby 7s for more than five years.
Moe Mata’afa
Moe is a dedicated and actively appointed match official within the Auckland Rugby Referees Association (ARRA) system, based in Auckland, New Zealand. His officiating presence spans club competitions, age-grade fixtures and community rugby matches, representing vital support and capability in the local refereeing community. Moe is a Life Member of Papatoetoe Rugby Football Club and has been heavily involved in the Auckland Samoa Rugby competitions for over 20 years. Moe has been attending Raro Rugby 7s for six years.
Rob Ah Kuoi
Rob is a dedicated match official operating within the Auckland Rugby Referees Association (ARRA) framework, frequently appointed to club and age-grade fixtures across the Auckland region. His consistent involvement underscores his commitment to supporting rugby officiating at multiple levels. This will be Rob’s first year at the Raro Rugby 7s.
