Hall of fame | WFF NZ

HALL OF FAME

PHIL KUKLINSKI

Three-Time Mr. Universe Title Holder and

Seven-Time Mr. New Zealand Title Holder

Bodybuilding for me is all about lifestyle and longevity. It impacts every part of my life, it helps keep me strong and healthy to deal with long, stressful work hours. It has taught me to be resilient, patient, and yet determined. It's not just a physical journey but one that has strengthened me mentally and spiritually.

I have also brought my family along on this journey, as we have toured the world representing New Zealand, measuring ourselves against the very best in the sport. Bodybuilding is an art form, like sculpting. It's quite the privilege.

TONY LIGALIGA

Two-Time WFF World Champion, Two-Time Mr. Universe and WFF Pro Card Holder

Tony's bodybuilding journey began with his first competition in 1994, followed by his first international victory in 1998, when he won the INBA Natural Universe in Las Vegas. He later returned to Las Vegas to claim the WFF Universe Championship.

Since 1997, Tony has represented New Zealand and Samoa on the international bodybuilding circuit, competing in New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, Germany, Slovakia, Malaysia, America and Russia. In 2000, he was named Overall Samoan Sportsman of the Year.

Tony spent 14 years competing in the WFF Federation, achieving first place every year. He also won a WFF Pro Card on his 50th birthday, which he later had to return due to reaching the age of 50.

Alongside his own competitive career, Tony has coached hundreds of athletes over the years, helping them enjoy and experience the sport he loves.

“Anyone can be a winner. Not everyone can be a champion.”

NAERA JOHNSON

Over 30 Years in the Fitness Industry and a Dedicated Advocate for Bodybuilding

Naera Johnson has been part of the fitness industry for over 30 years, working as a group fitness instructor, personal trainer and gym manager before beginning her competitive bodybuilding journey.

She competed for the first time on 31 March 2001, placing 1st in Novice Bodybuilding, and went on to compete in five shows that year, placing in the top three in every one.

Since 2002, Naera has been involved in bodybuilding event organisation, initially creating an annual non-Federation event with friends to promote bodybuilding and support athletes throughout their journeys. Today, as a WFFNZ Event Organiser, she continues that commitment to promoting the sport and supporting athletes.

Naera has also competed and judged nationally and internationally, representing New Zealand in Australia, Germany, Greece, Singapore, Bali, Las Vegas and Malaysia.

For Naera, bodybuilding is about people, connection and community — bringing like-minded people together, sharing a passion for the sport, and creating opportunities for athletes to step on stage with confidence and pride.