Chris Smylie

Chris Smylie brings a strong people-first focus to his role as Personal Development Manager at Moana Pasifika, supporting athletes to develop both on and off the field. Following a successful 16-year professional rugby career, Chris understands firsthand the demands, pressures, and opportunities that come with elite sport, and the reality that a playing career is finite. His work centres on holistic player development, wellbeing, and helping individuals navigate the personal, cultural, and professional demands of the game while strengthening their identity beyond the jersey.

Chris holds a Bachelor of Applied Sports Management, graduating with distinction, and a Bachelor’s degree in Counselling, combining high-performance insight with a strong foundation in mental health and personal development. He has worked in the social services sector as a facilitator with Northern Health School, supporting vulnerable families and young people through complex and challenging circumstances, and as a counsellor with VisionWest (Matanga Oranga), delivering community-based support grounded in care and connection. A provisional member in his counselling practice, Chris is deeply committed to player welfare, resilience, and long-term growth. Of Niuean, Māori (Te Ātiawa) and European descent, and guided by a servant leadership mindset, he is passionate about empowering young Māori and Pasifika men. Chris lives in Auckland with his wonderful wife Christine and their three boys.