He will be assisted by Tevita Makasina (TON) and Jan Hendrik Hintz (NZL).
The trio have officiated in four matches over the course of the tournament while Hester has also been involved in a fifth match as fourth official.
Vanuatu’s Harry Atisson will oversee the semi final as referee assessor making it an important occasion for Oceania referees. Atisson says he is proud to be representing Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) at this time.
With appointments for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ still to be decided, the U-17 tournament acts as an important part of the screening process.
Hester, who has attended several FIFA events including the FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa earlier this year, says he is enjoying the challenge.
“This tournament presents a realistic opportunity to press our claim for selection at the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ but ultimately you’ve got to take it one match at a time so that’s our approach,” said Hester.
A Lieutenant Commander in the New Zealand Navy, Hester started refereeing in 2001 but is already one of New Zealand’s most respected officials, refereeing age-group and senior internationals along with a host of New Zealand Football Championship matches.