She's known for her netball, but over the next few weeks Maia Wilson will focus on provincial rugby in new show One for the Roadie, as she and co-host Scotty Stevenson travel Aotearoa, challenging NPC and FPC players to outrageous feats, meeting locals, and uncovering the unique magic of each rugby community. But first, Maia Wilson faced a 1News Grill.
What are the three essential elements of your perfect weekend?
Love a sleep-in and then playing with my three-year-old niece, trying some local lunch spots and putting my feet up to watch some good old Saturday sport.
Who's a major netball mentor for you, and what did you learn from them?
Te Aroha Keenan. I pretty much learnt everything I know about the game from this lady but the biggest thing for me would be my shooting technique; release the ball straight up through my head like an upside down J.
What will be the biggest issue on your mind when you vote this November?
Positive outcomes for Māori, and taxes.
Which three adjectives best describe you as a teenager?
Driven, ambitious and a goodie-two-shoes.
What's one thing you've learned from veteran commentator and On the Roadie co-host Scotty Stevenson?
So many things, but in particular how to be authentic and bring the best out of our athletes and their stories. He brings a wealth of experience in not only broadcasting but sport, and everything seems effortless for him.
Who is the most underrated person in New Zealand?
Tia Winikerei, my GoSweetSpot Northern Mystics head coach. She has an incredible netball IQ and also knows how to bring a diverse group of people together. I genuinely believe she’s one of the best coaches I've played under.
What's one vice you'd like to quit or reduce?
Scrolling on my phone, in particular on TikTok.
What's your favourite provincial corner of New Zealand, and why?
Very biased but you can’t go past Northland. Even though I’m born and raised in Auckland, I whakapapa to Te Rarawa and Ngāpuhi and my mum has moved home to the Hokianga, so it feels like home. The winterless north really put it on for us. The manaakitanga of the people, the beaches and of course the kai, you can’t go past it.
What's your worst character trait?
I’m really good at clearing rooms; flatulence has been a top strength of mine of the past.
Watch One for the Roadie, tonight, TVNZ1 at 9.30pm, or you can stream it on TVNZ+.
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