Moana Pasifika confirm ‘heartbreaking’ exit from Super Rugby

After five years of competing in Super Rugby, Moana Pasifika has decided to disband the team at the end of the 2026 season.

The franchise have battled on and off the field this season, currently sitting in last place with one win from eight matches, as well as struggling financially.

In a statement, Moana Pasifika says the decision comes after extensive consideration of the financial, operational, and strategic realities of the franchise, adding it is no longer viable to continue the franchise at this level of competition.

Moana Pasifika have always been up against it since their inception in 2022 when they were funded by a World Rugby package with an eye towards being based in either Tonga or Samoa, which never eventuated.

It effectively became a sixth New Zealand franchise but was never able to find a permanent home in either Mount Smart Stadium in South Auckland or at Albany’s North Harbour Stadium.

Pasifika Medical Association took over the ownership in 2024, and their Chair, Dr Kiki Moate has today admitted defeat.

"This is one of the hardest decisions we have ever made. We are immensely proud of our players, staff, and the community who have supported our team over the years,” Moate says.

“Our commitment now is to ensure a smooth transition for everyone affected and to celebrate our legacy by finishing the season strong.”

Just 12 months ago, Moana Pasifika were riding a high.

All Blacks star Ardie Savea had joined the team as they won six of their 14 matches, finishing in seventh place, just five points behind the Blues who claimed the sixth and final playoff spot.

Savea was expected to rejoin the franchise next year following his sabbatical in Japan but will now be a free agent for 2027 where he’ll most likely join his former Super Rugby team, the Hurricanes.

Moana Pasifika’s demise has come as a shock to former All Blacks first-five Lima Sopoaga who was desperate to save the franchise.

“We need this team in the competition.  It’s not just a professional team, it’s a pathway for boys from the Pacific, it gives our players a stage to showcase their abilities,” Sopoaga said on social media.

“I’m calling on SANZAR, I’m calling on New Zealand Rugby, I’m calling on World Rugby, every governing body that can do something to save this team needs to do something. Maybe there’s a billionaire out there than can do something.”

Unfortunately for Sopoaga and the many fans of Moana Pasifika both in New Zealand, in the Pacific Islands, and around the world, it’s too late to save the franchise that never really had a chance to thrive.