Finding the Inner Warrior: Jaye Pukepuke visits WS

Earlier this week, we were privileged to welcome Jaye Pukepuke and his whānau to Waikato Stud, and it’s a visit we won’t forget in a hurry.

Jaye, a former junior Warrior who once walked a troubled path, has since become a powerful force for change. Through his charity programme Bros for Change, he’s helping rangatahi rewrite their stories with purpose, pride and discipline. His new book, Inner Warrior, is a raw and honest look at his life – from time behind bars to becoming a mentor, father and leader who now inspires others to rise above.

Honest, grounded and full of heart, his words hit home – not just for their weight, but for the hope they carried.

One of the most moving moments was watching young Matiu Pukepuke aboard Savabeel, a living legend in our world, sit proud as punch aboard the recent NZ Hall of Fame inductee. At WS, we talk a lot about legacy and we’re grateful to have shared our little piece of the countryside with someone whose legacy will reach far beyond the track.

If you’re after a read that’ll move you, motivate you and make you stop and think then Jaye’s Inner Warrior book is well worth picking up.

Check out his TEDx Talk click here, or watch how his charity programme ‘Bros for Change’ came about below.