Final Whistle: Moana Pasifika's Super Rugby Dream Comes to an End

Moana Pasifika will not feature in the 2027 Super Rugby competition after efforts to secure new ownership were unsuccessful.

The club entered liquidation in May after its former owners, Pasifika Medical Association, announced they were no longer in a position to financially support the franchise beyond the 2026 season. The team's final campaign came to an end last weekend, with liquidators revealing debts of around NZ$8.2 million.

New Zealand Rugby (NZR), which holds the competition licence, said it considered several proposals from potential investors in an attempt to keep the team alive. However, none of the bids met the financial and commercial standards needed to ensure the franchise could survive long term.

As a result, Super Rugby will continue with 10 teams in 2027.

Moana Pasifika Coach Tana Umaga

Despite the setback, NZR says the possibility of a Pacific Islands-based franchise returning in future remains alive. Chief Financial Officer Chris Kinraid said the organisation is committed to supporting the idea if the right investment and business model can be secured.

According to Kinraid, any future team would need to generate more than NZ$10 million annually through commercial income, on top of broadcast revenue. It would also require at least NZ$15 million in committed funding to establish a strong financial foundation and provide sufficient cash reserves.

Chris Kinraid (Photo Source - RNZ)

In response to the announcement, Super Rugby Pacific said it acknowledges New Zealand Rugby's decision and understands the disappointment it will bring to everyone connected with Moana Pasifika, including its players, coaches, staff, supporters, commercial partners and wider community.

The competition organisers thanked everyone who contributed to the club since it entered Super Rugby Pacific in 2022, saying Moana Pasifika had made a meaningful impact on the competition over the past five seasons.

Details on the structure and format of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.