The New Zealand government has launched an urgent bid to secure the future of Moana Pasifika after the Super Rugby club was left staring at a financial crisis.
The Auckland-based side, established in 2020 to provide a pathway for players of Pacific Island heritage, is searching for new financial backing after owner Pasifika Medical Association announced earlier this year that it would stop funding the team at the end of the season.
New Zealand foreign affairs minister Winston Peters confirmed on Monday that officials have been instructed to begin discussions with NZ Rugby and other stakeholders in an effort to keep the club alive.
“Rugby is a huge part of New Zealand and Polynesian culture and Moana Pasifika’s future is important to the governments and people of Samoa and Tonga, as well as to New Zealand’s Pacific communities and rugby fans,” Peters said.
“It would be seriously regrettable if Moana Pasifika were unable to take part in future Super Rugby seasons.
“We want to make sure every option is explored to try to find a sound business proposition and sustainable economic footing for the team.”
UMAGA: Uncertainty taking toll on Moana
Peters recently met with Samoa prime minister La’aulialemalietoa Schmidt and Tongan prime minister Lord Fakafanua, with the future of Moana Pasifika a key topic of discussion.
The intervention comes after Moana ended their 2026 Super Rugby campaign on a high, beating the Brumbies 21-19 in Canberra on Saturday.
While several parties have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring the franchise licence, no formal deal has yet emerged.
LARKHAM: Super Rugby could be stronger
It is understood that operating the club costs more than $5.9-million (R57-million) annually, leaving administrators scrambling to find a sustainable long-term solution before next season.
– AFP
Photo: Masanori Udagawa/Getty Images
