title: Ali Leiataua
text: # Ali Leiataua
  
  Ali Leiataua (/leɪətaʊə/) (born 9 January 2003) is an New Zealand rugby league footballer who plays as a centre for the New Zealand Warriors in the National Rugby League (NRL).
  
  ## Background
  
  Leiataua was born in Auckland, and was educated at King's College. He is the nephew of former New Zealand Warriors player Ali Lauiti'iti.
  
  ## Playing career
  
  ### Juniors
  
  In 2017, Leiataua earned a contract with the New Zealand Warriors at age 14 whilst playing rugby union for King's College and rugby league for the Papatoetoe Panthers. He went on to play for 'Auckland Blue' in the New Zealand Rugby League under-20s competition, as well as the Warriors' S.G. Ball Cup side.
  
  ### 2023
  
  Following a string of good form, and injuries to other centres, Leiataua was named to debut at centre in his side's 36−14 victory over the Canberra Raiders at Canberra Stadium in round 15 of the 2023 NRL season.
  
  