The In the Neighbourhood Marty Masters Sevens returned to Martinborough on Saturday, 26 September, with 10 men’s teams and — for the first time — 8 women’s teams lighting up the pitch. The inaugural wāhine grade was a brilliant addition, bringing fun, fierce competition and a whole lot of energy to the day.
Tawa made history as the first team to have their name engraved on the new Wāhine Trophy, clinching victory over the Eastbourne Orcas in golden goal extra time with just a minute to spare. Our own Martinborough Women’s team put in a superb effort, finishing second in the round robin before bowing out in a nail-biting penalty shootout. Next year, ladies — we see you.
In the men’s competition, the Seatoun Gulls finally claimed the trophy after years of trying, edging out previous winners Waterside Karori Dreamers 5–4 on penalties. Their fast-paced, skilful final ended 1–1 after extra time, setting up a dramatic finish worthy of the Masters Sevens.
A massive thank you goes to In the Neighbourhood Coffee House for their outstanding sponsorship — including team lunches and a 10% café discount across the weekend to help everyone fuel up and recover. We’re also grateful to our generous supporters: Escarpment Wines, Te Kairanga Wines, Dr Beak Gin, Circus Cinema, Oraterra Wines, Filly Wines, Claremont Hotel and Apartments, The Good Way Wines, Ata Rangi Wines, Masters and Jack Wines, Martinborough TOP 10, Kitcheners Café, Martinborough Hotel and Johner Estate Wines. We’re incredibly lucky to have such a supportive community.
Thanks too to Greytown Football Club, Martinborough Rugby Club, SWDC/City Care, the Martinborough Volunteer Fire Brigade First Response Unit, all our Martinborough teams, and the tireless volunteer committee who make the magic happen.
It takes a village to run a tournament — and being a wine village certainly doesn’t hurt.
