Who Is Maria Folau? Age, Biography and Wiki
Maria Folau, born on February 18, 1987, is a renowned New Zealand netball player who has made significant contributions to the sport. With over a decade of experience in elite netball, Maria has become a household name in New Zealand. Her athletic prowess and dedication to the game have garnered her numerous accolades and a passionate fan base. As of 2025, Maria is 38 years old and continues to inspire many young athletes around the globe.
| Occupation | Netball Player |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 18, 1987 |
| Age | 38 Years |
| Birth Place | Tokoroa, New Zealand |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | New Zealand |
Popularity
Maria Folau's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Standing tall at 1.88 m (6 feet 2 inches), Maria Folau possesses an impressive physical presence on the court. Throughout her career, she has maintained a healthy weight of approximately 75 kg (165 lbs). Her athletic build and measurements contribute to her agility and strength, essential qualities for a professional netball player.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Maria Folau is known for keeping her personal life relatively private. She is currently in a committed relationship with former professional rugby player Israel Folau. The couple has been together since 2016 and often shares glimpses of their life together on social media. Maria, who is also close to her family, often credits her success to their unwavering support throughout her career.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Maria Folau's estimated net worth is around $2 million. Her earnings primarily come from her illustrious netball career, endorsements, and partnerships with various brands. While exact salary figures are often undisclosed, it is widely recognized that top-tier athletes in netball can earn a comfortable income, reflecting their skill and popularity in the sport.
Career, Business and Investments
Maria Folau's career in netball spans various successful seasons, including her time with the New Zealand national team and several franchises in the ANZ Championship. Her impactful performances on the court have led to multiple team titles and personal awards. Beyond her netball career, Maria has ventured into business, including promoting fitness-related brands and engaging in community sports initiatives. She is passionate about mentoring young athletes, helping them to achieve their dreams in sports.
During her senior international career, Maria Folau has won gold medals at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, 2006 Commonwealth Games and the 2009 World Netball Series, in addition to a silver medal at the 2007 World Netball Championships.
Social Network
Maria Folau is active on social media, where she connects with fans and shares insights into her life and career. Her Instagram account has amassed over 200,000 followers, providing updates on her professional achievements, personal milestones, and her involvement with charitable organizations. Maria uses her platform to advocate for women's sports and inspire the next generation of athletes.
Education
Maria Folau pursued her education while balancing her athletic commitments. Although specifics about her academic background are limited, it is evident that her discipline and dedication are reflected in both her studies and sports career. She emphasizes the importance of education and often encourages aspiring athletes to prioritize their learning alongside their sporting ambitions.
She was named for her grandmothers, Solonaima and Malia, and she began using her middle name when she entered school as her teacher had difficulty pronouncing her first name. Maria Tuta'ia was an attendee of Lynfield College but in the final year of it, transferred to Mount Albert Grammar School.
At MAGS, she became a captain of its first Premier Netball team, which under her command came fourth at the Upper North Island Secondary Schools tournament and New Zealand Secondary Schools' Championships respectively.
In 2003, Folau was named in the New Zealand U21 squad and two years later she became part of the winning team that brought home the 2005 World Youth Cup from Miami. That year, she was called into the Silver Ferns team, making her on-court debut when the Ferns toured Jamaica.
