Racing
League
Rugby
Football
Cricket
Golf
Olympics
Motorsport
Netball
Combat Sports
Basketball
Tennis
Other Sports
Sport Nation
FWC: SUI v CAN live on SN ExtraMoana Pasifika rescue bid rejected by NZR, Super Rugby responds
Sport Nation • June 24th, 2026 11:56 am
Moana Pasifika won't be back in 2027 | Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP
New Zealand Rugby has confirmed it will not approve the transfer of Moana Pasifika’s licence to any new party, with Super Rugby Pacific set to move to a 10-team format in 2027.
NZR said it explored every possibility for a long-term solution with several interested parties, including allowing multiple extensions to the May 15 deadline.
However, none of the parties were able to satisfy both the capital and business plan requirements needed to secure the licence.
NZR Chief Financial Officer Chris Kinraid said the decision was made in the best interests of the competition, and to provide certainty and stability for sponsors, suppliers, teams, broadcasters and fans.
“We want to be clear, the door remains open beyond 2027. We firmly believe a team can be based in the Pacific Islands and that a sustainable long-term solution can be found in the future. We remain open and willing to engage with anyone who can meet the financial and commercial requirements.
“We also acknowledge the engagement of Minister Winston Peters and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade for the recognition of the role rugby can play in the Pacific region.
“This has been a difficult time for the Moana Pasifika players, management and fans, and the communities that supported them. A lot of hard work has gone into looking at all possibilities for next season. Unfortunately, the long-term financial requirements to participate in the competition could not be met.”
“This has been a difficult time for the Moana Pasifika players, management and fans, and the communities that supported them. A lot of hard work has gone into looking at all possibilities for next season. Unfortunately, the long-term financial requirements to participate in the competition could not be met.”
Moana Pasifika licence decision brings many questions | Sport Nation Mornings
Any party attempting to acquire the Moana Pasifika licence from 2027 was required to meet two minimum financial requirements.
The first was a credible long term business plan showing the ability to generate commercial revenue and operate sustainably.
The second was evidence of committed and viable capital to meet establishment costs, support short term operations and protect against financial risks.
Kinraid said NZR’s assessment was that a competitive team operating under the Moana Pasifika licence would require minimum levels of commercial revenue, spending and capital.
“A competitive and sustainable team needs commercial revenue of more than NZ$10 million, in addition to broadcast revenue; and at least NZ$15 million in committed capital to support its business plan and maintain appropriate cash reserves.”
Kinraid said NZR also received interest in future expansion opportunities beyond 2027, which he described as an encouraging sign for the competition.
“The licence available through this process was specifically for a team representing Moana Pasifika as a pathway for Tonga and Samoa from 2027. This was not a process to establish a new team or enter a new market.
“We are aware of credible interest in future participation and expansion in Super Rugby Pacific, including opportunities in new markets and the Pacific. We see that as a positive sign for current outlook and the long-term strength and attractiveness of the competition.
“Any future expansion of Super Rugby Pacific would need to be considered in partnership with Rugby Australia, Super Rugby Pacific and as part of a broader competition strategy.”
“We are aware of credible interest in future participation and expansion in Super Rugby Pacific, including opportunities in new markets and the Pacific. We see that as a positive sign for current outlook and the long-term strength and attractiveness of the competition.
“Any future expansion of Super Rugby Pacific would need to be considered in partnership with Rugby Australia, Super Rugby Pacific and as part of a broader competition strategy.”
Where does Ardie Savea play now? | Sport Nation Mornings
In response, Super Rugby Pacific have issued a statement that acknowledged the decision while highlighting the disappointment felt through the club, from players, coaches and staff, through to their supporters, commercial partners and stakeholders.
"Since joining Super Rugby Pacific in 2022, Moana Pasifika has made a significant contribution to the fabric of our competition and we extend our gratitude to everyone who played a part in that journey.
"There can be no doubt the Pasifika community has been a fundamental part of our competition for the last 30 years, and our commitment to recognising and celebrating that community remains."
"There can be no doubt the Pasifika community has been a fundamental part of our competition for the last 30 years, and our commitment to recognising and celebrating that community remains."
Further details on the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season format will be communicated in the coming weeks.
