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Important update on 1476AMMoana Pasifika officially axed from Super Rugby
Sport Nation • April 15th, 2026 10:00 am
Moana Pasifika | Photo: Brett Phibbs/Photosport
Moana Pasifika’s Super Rugby tenure is officially over.
On Wednesday, the club confirmed reports they will close their doors at the end of their 2026 campaign due to financial reasons.
"After 5 years of competing in the Super Rugby competition and engaging with communities, Moana Pasifika have made the difficult and heartbreaking decision to disband their Super Rugby franchise following the conclusion of the 2026 season," the team wrote on its website.
"This decision comes after extensive consideration of the financial, operational, and strategic realities facing the franchise as well as professional rugby in New Zealand. Despite the tireless dedication of players, staff, and supporters, it is no longer viable to continue the franchise at this level of competition."
Since entering the competition in 2022 alongside the Fijian Drua, Moana Pasifika has faced persistent challenges both on and off the field.
Envisioned as a professional pathway to strengthen Pacific rugby, the team has instead largely functioned as a sixth New Zealand-based side, sharing the Auckland market with the Blues.
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Results have been hard to come by in 2026, with the side sitting bottom of the 11-team table at 1-7 midway through the season. Off the field, building a sustainable fan base and attracting commercial backing has also proven difficult, compounded by a shift in home venues from Mt Smart Stadium to North Harbour Stadium last year.
There have been glimpses of progress — notably last season’s seventh-place finish, their best to date, led by All Blacks loose forward Ardie Savea — but consistency and recruitment remain ongoing hurdles.
Further change is looming, with head coach Tana Umaga set to depart at season’s end to join Dave Rennie’s All Blacks coaching group.
"This is one of the hardest decisions we have ever made," added Moana Pasifika Chair, Dr Kiki Maoate.
"We are immensely proud of our players, staff, and the community who have supported our team over the years," said Maoate.
“Across our rugby, pathways and community programmes, we have been able to support a growing hub of Pacific talent across multiple sporting codes, both locally and in the Pacific region. This is something we are extremely proud of and will continue to support and advocate for as best we can.
“Our commitment now is to ensure a smooth transition for everyone affected and to celebrate our legacy by finishing the season strong.”
The club adds it will provide support to all players and staff during this transition.
