Veteran Kiwi NRL referee Henry Perenara has announced his retirement, after more than 21 years in the game as a player and official.
The one-test Kiwi had playing stints at Cronulla Sharks, Melbourne Storm, St George-Illawarra, Parramatta Eels and NZ Warriors, before moving into refereeing in 2007.
One of just a few players in the history of Australian rugby league to successfully transition from player to whistle-blower, Perenara took charge of his debut first-grade game in 2011, and went on to officiate 214 matches at NRL and test level.
Earlier this year, a heart ailment forced the 41-year-old from on-field refereeing to the NRL bunker, which coincided with a match-changing error, missing a forward pass in the Warriors' comeback victory against Canberra Raiders in round three.
Perenara was at the centre of controversy late in the season, failing to recommend a send-off for South Sydney star Latrell Mitchell, whose tackle on Sydney Roosters Kiwi international Joseph Manu broke the Tokoroa native's cheekbone.
The three-game Warrior was stood down from the bunker and didn't return for the 2021 NRL finals.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in footy," Perenara says. "I have my life because of this great game and I will be forever grateful for that.
"I now look forward to enjoying it as a fan."
Perenara confirms he will take up a role as a mortgage advisor, while enjoying rugby league from the comfort of home.
