On-field problems at the Warriors are being mirrored in the back office, where friction between the NRL club’s co-owners is set to result in a significant restructure.
One-third owners Autex Industries want complete control and discussions are under way to buy out majority stakeholders, the Carlaw Heritage Trust, who are an arm of the Auckland Rugby League.
The change looms just over a year after the joint venture purchased the club from its long-time owner, businessman Eric Watson.
While the Trust were motivated by a desire to use the Warriors as a vehicle to boost the struggling grass roots of New Zealand rugby league, Autex are believed to have different goals and the relationship has reportedly become strained.
Autex chief executive Mark Robinson confirmed to the New Zealand Herald that he is bidding for full ownership.
The Trust paid $NZ13 million ($A12.2 million) for their 67 per cent stake last year.
“We want the club to reach its full potential (but) …the last thing we want is for this to cause any disruption to the club, the great people behind it, and its stakeholders and we’re working hard to move through negotiations as smoothly as possible,” Robinson said.
The ructions come after a season of modest home crowds as the Warriors slumped to 14th place with a round to play.
Chief executive Cameron George has publicly criticised the players’ lack of effort, earning a rebuke from coach Stephen Kearney.
Contracted until 2022, Kearney is attracting criticism for the team’s struggles, including a biting NZ Herald article from columnist Chris Rattue on Sunday.
“Stephen Kearney’s coaching era has become a disaster zone, and one from which there is little likelihood of escape in future years,” Rattue wrote.
“Who knows if George himself will survive under new owners? Whatever the ownership outcome, the results on the field are clear.
“Kearney is one of the great men of Kiwi league but there is nowhere to hide in the NRL head coaching game.”