Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh

Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is a New Zealand association football referee, widely recognized for his authoritative presence and fair decision-making on the pitch. He currently officiates at the highest levels of the sport, including prestigious international tournaments. Fans and players appreciate his consistent application of the rules, which helps maintain the integrity of the game. He stands out as one of the most respected figures in Oceania football, regularly appointed to significant matches that demand top-tier officiating.

His career has seen him take charge of numerous high-stakes games, from domestic league clashes to major global competitions. He is a familiar face to many who follow international football, known for his calm demeanor under pressure and his ability to manage complex situations during play. His continued involvement in major events highlights his ongoing contribution to the sport. [edit]

Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh's journey into the world of football officiating began in New Zealand, where he developed a deep passion for the sport from a young age. He started his refereeing path by taking charge of local matches, gradually moving up through the ranks of regional and national competitions. This early experience was vital, allowing him to hone his skills, learn the nuances of game management, and build a strong understanding of football's laws.

His dedication became evident as he progressed, eventually officiating in the New Zealand Football Championship. He spent many seasons, from 2009 to 2016, overseeing matches in this premier domestic league. During these years, he built a reputation for his consistent performance and a keen eye for detail, which caught the attention of regional and international football bodies. Before earning full international appointments, he gained valuable experience as a support referee for various international fixtures, observing and learning from seasoned officials on the world stage. These formative years laid the groundwork for his future success, instilling the discipline and professionalism that define his career today. [edit]

Kawana-Waugh's career truly took off with his selection as an OFC (Oceania Football Confederation) referee in 2018, marking his entry onto the international stage. This appointment opened doors to bigger opportunities, allowing him to officiate matches across the Oceania region and beyond. A significant milestone arrived in December 2023 when he served as the fourth official for a FIFA Club World Cup semi-final, a high-profile match featuring Manchester City. This role showcased his ability to handle the pressure of elite club football.

The year 2024 brought further recognition with his appointment as a match official for the Paris Olympic Football Tournaments in July, a testament to his growing standing in the global refereeing community. However, one of his most important achievements came in June 2026, when he was selected as one of two New Zealand match officials to represent OFC at the FIFA World Cup 2026™ in North America. This particular appointment was especially notable as he was the only referee chosen from all of Oceania for the tournament. Looking ahead, he is also scheduled to officiate a match between Bahrain and Algeria in December 2025, continuing his busy schedule of international duties. [edit]

Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is widely regarded as a beacon of integrity and professionalism within the world of association football. His public persona is defined by a calm, composed demeanor on the field, which resonates with fans who appreciate fair play and consistent decision-making. Media outlets often highlight his steady hand in high-pressure situations, portraying him as a figure who embodies the core principles of sportsmanship and discipline. Audiences connect with his unwavering commitment to the rules and his ability to manage games effectively, contributing to the overall flow and enjoyment of the sport. His reputation as a reliable and respected official has grown steadily over his career. [edit]

Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is the only referee from Oceania selected for the FIFA World Cup 2026, a historic appointment that places him in the global spotlight. Yet, despite his prominence on the pitch, iFANN's Global Fame Engine has evaluated him but found no placement in the published rankings, he is not currently listed among the Global Top 1,000 or any Top-100 scope list. His fame, while real within football circles, doesn't translate into the kind of mass recognition that drives global rankings.

When it comes to fandom, Kawana-Waugh exists in a curious vacuum. There is no documented fandom name, no organized fan clubs, no viral moments, no inside jokes. His public profile is built entirely on professional milestones: the first husband-and-wife referee duo in New Zealand, a steady climb through FIFA and OFC appointments, and that World Cup nod. Fans of the game respect him; they don't worship him. The absence of a formal fanbase is typical for referees, but even informal communities haven't coalesced around him. He's a figure of authority, not of myth.[edit]

Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is often known simply by his nickname, CK, a familiar handle within the football community. He has officiated alongside fellow New Zealand referee Isaac Trevis on several world stages, forming a respected officiating duo. Beyond his professional duties, he has taken charge of high-profile friendly matches, including a notable fixture between Auckland FC and Tottenham, demonstrating his versatility and experience across different types of games.

In a historic first, Kawana-Waugh and his wife, Anna-Marie Keighley, both referees, became the first husband-and-wife pair to referee games on the same day in New Zealand. He also made history as the only Oceania referee appointed to the FIFA World Cup 2026, a milestone that cements his legacy in the region's football story.[edit]

Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh shares a unique bond with his wife, Anna-Marie Keighley, as she is also a prominent association football referee. Their shared profession means they both understand the demands and pressures of officiating at a high level. Together, they made a bit of history as the first married couple to referee separate games at significant tournaments, a testament to their individual talents and their collective dedication to the sport. Their household is undoubtedly one that revolves around football, with both partners actively contributing to the game's integrity. [edit]

Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh's professional life is closely linked with other prominent figures in football officiating. His wife, Anna-Marie Keighley, is also a respected international referee, and their shared career path has often been highlighted within the football community. He has also frequently worked alongside fellow New Zealand referee Isaac Trevis, with whom he has officiated on significant international stages, including FIFA World Cup events. These collaborations underscore the strong network of officials he is a part of. [edit]

Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is married to Anna-Marie Keighley, who is also a distinguished association football referee. Their relationship is notable for their shared passion and profession, creating a unique bond within the global football community. They have both built successful individual careers while supporting each other's endeavors in officiating. This shared path has made them a well-recognized couple in the sport. As of 2026, Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh remains happily married to Anna-Marie Keighley. [edit]

iFANN's editorial analysis puts Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh's net worth at approximately $2 Million as of 2026, a figure built primarily on his extensive high-level career as an association football referee. His income streams include match fees and allowances from domestic league games, particularly during his years in the New Zealand Football Championship. The most significant portion of his earnings, however, comes from his appointments to major international tournaments and competitions under FIFA and OFC. Officiating at events like the FIFA Club World Cup, the Paris Olympic Football Tournaments, and especially the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026™, commands substantial fees, commensurate with the global profile and demands of these matches. These international appointments also come with additional stipends for training camps, travel, and preparation. While specific figures for referee salaries are not always public, top-tier FIFA referees can earn considerable amounts per match, along with annual retainers or bonuses for their consistent availability and performance. His long and distinguished career at both national and international levels has allowed him to build this financial standing.[edit]