Stacey Waaka

Beef + Lamb New Zealand ambassador Stacey Waaka smiling with arms crossed on a floodlit rugby field

Stacey Waaka (Ngāi Tūhoe) is our brand ambassador and a world-class rugby union, sevens, and league player. Growing up across Papakura, Melbourne, and Ruatoki, including time on her grandmother's farm, Stacey developed a deep connection to the land and to good Kiwi kai. 

Known as ‘The Smiling Assassin’ on the pitch, she is a formidable force and one of our most celebrated rugby players. Off the field, she advocates for wāhine in sport and for the values of hard work, whānau, and community.

She knows what it takes to fuel her body to perform at her best, and she loves New Zealand beef and lamb because they taste delicious and are packed with nutrients. 

Five things about Stacey

The latest campaign

Stacey Waaka is bringing her energy, enthusiasm and love of community to local sports clubs across the North Island. It’s a celebration of the volunteers, whānau and young players who make grassroots sport so special. With the Lamb Cruiser loaded full of New Zealand beef burgers for the barbecue and time set aside for skills, drills and connection, each visit is about creating good times, sharing good food and helping fuel the next generation of Kiwi athletes.

The three 2026-2027 Beef + Lamb Ambassador Chefs in chef whites leaning on a kitchen bench

Our Ambassador Chefs

Our culinary ambassadors are central to New Zealand’s beef and lamb story, putting our world-class grass-fed beef and lamb centre stage, both in the kitchen and beyond. These talented chefs play a role that extends well beyond the kitchen. They’re passionate advocates who connect with our farmers, industry leaders and the wider food community, bringing their knowledge, creativity and love of great food to the table.