A career in professional rugby has given Obey Samate more than sporting experience; it has equipped him with many of the skills he believes can make him a better real estate agent. From reading the play and thinking several steps ahead to communicating clearly, staying calm under pressure and working towards a shared goal, the lessons learned on the rugby field now form the foundation of his approach to property.

Competing in the Taranaki NPC squad and being involved with super rugby team Moana Pasifika as a First-Five and Fullback Obey was responsible for helping direct his team, assessing what was happening around him, making decisions quickly and communicating the game plan. Before matches he and the attacking leadership group would analyse the opposition, develop a strategy and ensure the wider team understood how they would execute it. Once the game began, however, circumstances could change quickly, requiring him to adapt without losing sight of the overall objective.

He brings that same combination of preparation, strategic thinking and composure to real estate. Selling a home requires more than putting a property on the market and waiting for an offer. It involves understanding the client’s objective, developing a plan, anticipating what may happen next and being ready to adjust when circumstances change. Obey believes his sporting experience has taught him how to remain clear-headed when there is pressure and keep working towards the desired result.

His professional journey has also taught him resilience. Obey left Auckland in 2019 to pursue a rugby career, eventually moving to New Plymouth after several years in Otago. His first professional contract did not come until 2024, at the age of 25, despite many of his school contemporaries having already secured contracts. Rather than giving up when opportunities did not materialise he continued working towards his goal.

That determination was demonstrated again in 2024 when Obey helped Stratford Eltham Rugby Club win the Taranaki club rugby competition, ending a championship drought of several decades. He had arrived at the club with the ambition of helping it win but achieving that goal required leadership, preparation, communication, hard work and a team working together.

Those same qualities underpin Obey’s approach to selling property. He understands that every client has a different definition of success and believes building a strong connection is essential to understanding what that success looks like. His ability to relate to people from different backgrounds, see situations from both perspectives and create an enjoyable environment helps establish the trust required for a successful relationship.

He also brings plenty of personality to the process. Naturally funny, energetic and thoughtful, Obey enjoys lifting the mood and reducing tension while his competitive side remains focused on achieving the best possible outcome for his clients.

Having chosen Bayleys because of its high professional standards and ambitious approach, Obey is particularly focused on serving the South Auckland community where he grew up including Māngere and Māngere Bridge as well as the Takanini and Manukau Heights markets.

For Obey the transition from rugby to real estate is a natural one: understand the goal, make the plan, prepare for what comes next, stay calm under pressure and execute.