Reece Papuni is a highly accomplished boxing coach and athlete with over 25 years of experience in the sport. He has competed in 107 bouts as both an amateur and professional boxer. Notable achievements include winning the New Zealand Junior Light Heavyweight Championship in 2002 and being the New Zealand Elite Light Heavyweight Champion for three consecutive years from 2009 to 2011. Reece also represented New Zealand at the 2010 New Delhi Commonwealth Games and was a World Series Boxer for the Incheon Red Wings based in South Korea from 2010 to 2011. In 2010, he was awarded the prestigious Jamieson Belt for the Most Scientific Boxer of New Zealand. As a professional boxer, Reece has held titles such as the WBF Oceania Light Heavyweight Champion in 2013 and the NZPBF Light Heavyweight Title in 2015.

Since retiring from competing in 2020, Reece has focused on coaching and mentoring rangatahi to help them thrive and lead healthy, successful futures. He is the founder and Head Coach of Papuni Boxing Ōtautahi and has also served as Head Coach of  the Canterbury Boxing Team. Reece is passionate about developing athletes of all ages and has deep expertise in the technical and tactical aspects of boxing. His focus is on creating a positive team culture that promotes collaboration, respect, and a winning mindset both inside and outside the Boxing Ring. 

REECE PAPUNI