Tawera Kerr-Barlow made his All Blacks debut against Scotland
on the Northern Hemisphere end of year tour. He was one of the
stand‑out players from last season’s Investec Super Rugby showing
the opposition that he is tenacious and aggressive. He was an
influential part of Waikato’s Ranfurly Shield win, having made his
ITM Cup debut in his first year out of school for Waikato in 2010.
The son of a former Women’s Australian rugby international,
Kerr‑Barlow represented New Zealand in school rugby and was part
of 2010 IRB World Championship winning side.

Q&A with Tawera

Who was your favourite cartoon character as you were growing up?
Road Runner

Who was your favourite player to watch as you were growing up?
Jonah Lomu

Where did you watch the 2011 Rugby World Cup final?
At home

You are speaking to a first XV rugby team what would be your one piece of advice to them?
Never not try something

What’s one of the most difficult aspects of being a professional rugby player?
Not listening to negative talk

Which rugby skill are you yet to master?
Scrummaging

In your family of friends circle who is your number one supporter?
My whole family

Favourite New Zealand holiday destination?
Tapu

Who inspires you?
My mum and Aunty