What is Sharpen Up?

Sharpen Up is the sports podcast you didn’t know you needed—real talk, big laughs, and a Māori take on sport. Hosted by Courtney Tairi, Piri Weepu, Api Pewhairangi, and Creative Taro Jordaan - it’s where expert insights meet epic yarns with plenty of banter.

Piri’s the rugby legend who’s a bit cheeky, Courtney keeps things on track (most of the time), Jordaan makes an impact off the bench and Api brings the oranges... Together, they break down the biggest sports stories, chat with top athletes, and make sure there’s never a dull moment.

If you love sport, good banter, and a fresh perspective, then you better Sharpen Up!

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Our Team

  • Courtney Tairi

    Courtney Tairi knows sport inside and out—because she’s lived it! A former elite netballer played for the Silver Ferns in 2014. These days, she’s swapped the court for the mic, becoming one of the most entertaining and knowledgeable voices in sports media.

    From sideline reporting to hosting, Courtney’s got the inside scoop and isn’t afraid to ask the real questions (or have a laugh along the way). She connects with athletes and fans like no one else, bringing energy, humour, and a Māori perspective to sport. If you want expert insights with a side of fun, she’s the perfect person to host a sports podcast and keep her team on their toes.

  • Piri Weepu

    Piri Weepu has done it all—played for the All Blacks, won a Rugby World Cup, and pulled off some of the slickest moves in the game. A halfback with a big rugby brain and an even bigger personality, he’s the kind of guy who made things happen on the field and always had his teammates’ backs.

    These days, Piri’s all about giving back—whether it’s mentoring young players, sharing his knowledge, or just giving stick to his co-hosts. With his quick wit, sharp insights, and love of a good laugh (usually at someone else’s expense), he’s the ultimate sports podcast host. Expect epic stories, expert takes, and plenty of banter—because if there’s one thing Piri loves as much as rugby, it’s keeping everyone honest!

  • Api Pewhairangi

    Api Pewhairangi might not have as many caps as his co-hosts, but don’t let that fool you—he’s got a sharp wit to keep up with them. A former pro rugby league and rugby union player, Api knows what it takes to compete at the highest level, but his real superpower is his deep knowledge of Te Ao Māori and the way he weaves it into sport, culture, and everyday life.

    While the others bring the big-game stories, Api brings the big-picture thinking. He’s the guy who asks the smart questions, keeps the kōrero meaningful.

  • Creative Taro (Jordaan)

    Jordaan or “Creative Taro” as he’s known across socials is the the guy who’s always thinking outside the box and coming up with the big questions. He’s a hearty league fan and keeps us up to date with everything happening at grassroots level.  He’s the impact player who comes off the bench to inject his unique worldview into Sharpen Up.