New Zealand Rugby has stepped in to pay the wages of Moana Pasifika players after the Super Rugby Pacific franchise went into liquidation this week.
The team was placed into liquidation on Monday, with their final game of the season set for this weekend against the Brumbies in Canberra. New Zealand Rugby confirmed it will cover player salaries through to the end of July, giving players and staff some short-term certainty.
Coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga said the news brought relief to a squad that had been through weeks of worry. “Getting that news, it was met with a bit of applause,” he said. “We’re very thankful to New Zealand Rugby for stepping in at this time.”
Moana Pasifika entered Super Rugby Pacific in 2022, becoming the first team to represent Pasifika communities across Aotearoa. However, running the franchise costs between $10 million and $12 million per year, and the team’s main backer, the Pasifika Medical Association, could no longer afford it after losing a major government contract.
Despite the heartbreaking news, the squad has not given up hope. The Kanaloa Consortium, which has the support of several former All Blacks, is still trying to take over the franchise licence. The Pacific Rugby Players Association is also involved in rescue talks.
Umaga said the team was holding on to optimism. “There’s hope and when there’s hope, there’s a way,” he said.
New Zealand Rugby said it remains committed to supporting Moana Pasifika’s vision of Pacific rugby at the highest level.
