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FWC on Sport Nation guide‘They've shown me so much’: Elinor-Plum King aims big after move to Matatū
Elena Abbott • July 1st, 2026 2:44 pm
Elinor-Plum King | Photo: John Davidson/Photosport
Matatū have started their Super Rugby Aupiki season with a bang, sitting comfortably at the top of the table at the end of round three.
The South Island side has won all of their games, beating the Blues Women over the weekend in an action-packed clash.
Flanker Elinor-Plum King told Sport Nation Breakfast that signing with Matatū has elevated her game.
Originally playing for the Hurricanes Poua, King-plum made the switch this season.
“I've just been around new players and new coaches. They've shown me so much more,” she said.
Growing up in rural Hawke's Bay town Ongaonga, Plum-King played plenty of rugby alongside her siblings, sparking her passion for the game.
She credits her upbringing for her love of the sport, sharing with hosts Israel Dagg and Sam Ackerman how she enjoyed the early stages.
Elinor-Plum King playing for the Hurricanes Poua in 2025 | Photo: Elias Rodriguez/Photosport
“It was just so much fun. I had seven siblings with me out there, so I was never by myself, was never too quiet.
“All four older siblings all played rugby, so I just got added to the drop-offs and that was how I started,” she explained.
King has her sights set on making the Black Ferns, an achievement that would complete her career.
But she knows getting there will mean proving her skills in the last three Aupiki rounds and making it to the Grand Final as the Matatū look to go one better after losing the 2025 final to the Blues.
“It'd be unreal, that's obviously a big picture for me. I'd love to get there.
“I’m just putting everything into the season that I'm in right now,” she said.
Listen to the full interview below:
