A Proven Pathway
Fitzharris is the latest success story from the FC Tauranga Moana Academy, a joint initiative between Tauranga City and Pāpāmoa FC, with Otūmoetai FC joining in recent years to expand opportunities in the women’s game. Aligned with New Zealand Football’s development programmes, the academy has built a reputation for producing players who go on to feature in National League squads across Aotearoa or into professional environments worldwide.
Auckland FC’s Head of Player Recruitment, Doug Kors, said Fitzharris’ signing was the result of long-term planning.
“We are delighted to welcome Van Fitzharris into the club, a player we have been tracking closely for the past 18 months. Van was part of our very first Development Centre identification game, has attended our development training camps, and even had the opportunity to train with our A-League squad. His progression is a credit to Tauranga City and FC Tauranga Moana’s strong development programs, and it is fantastic to see another talented player from Tauranga step into our pathway, further strengthening the partnership we have built with clubs in the WaiBOP region.”
Tauranga City’s senior side has also played a critical role, providing some of the country’s best opportunities for young players to gain National League experience. This season, the club once again gave more U20 players significant minutes than any other Northern League team outside of Auckland FC’s U21 reserves.
Tauranga City head coach and FC Tauranga Moana Technical Director Barry Gardiner said Fitzharris’ move was richly deserved.
“This news is great for Van and shows the hard work and commitment he has put into himself to develop both on and off the field over a long period of time,” Gardiner said. “Van has been part of our pathways for more than 10 years. Auckland FC is a fantastic next step, and we’ll be watching proudly as he progresses. He’ll also link up with former Tauranga City player Jonty Bidois, which shows again that our pathways are delivering opportunities at the highest level.”
Tauranga City chairperson and FC Tauranga Moana trustee Brendon McHugh said the signing was a proud moment for the club and the region.
“It seems like yesterday Van was running around in a Mount Juniors kit or as a ball boy at our Men’s First Team games,” McHugh said. “To now see him signing with Auckland FC is incredibly rewarding – not just for Van, but for the many coaches, volunteers, and players who have contributed to his journey. Van has worked tirelessly for this opportunity, and it’s a great reflection of the pathways we’ve built since 2018. Stories like his show why we’re committed to continuing that growth and creating even more opportunities for young players in our region.”
