Moana Pasifika to host Western Force in Pukekohe for 2026 Super Rugby Pacific opener
Moana Pasifika will return to South Auckland this year to open their 2026 DHL Super Rugby Pacific campaign, hosting the Western Force at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe.
The match is scheduled for Friday, 27th of this month, with kickoff at 7.05pm.
It marks the team’s first home game of the season and a return to what the club considers its second home.
Moana Pasifika played two matches at the venue in 2025, facing off against the Chiefs and Brumbies.
Head Coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga says the return to Pukekohe is special for many in the squad who have strong ties to Counties Manukau.
Umaga says that they got some good connections across the Counties Manukau area and many of their squad have played there and still base themselves there.
It’s always special going back to a place that means a lot to me as a former player and coach for Counties Manukau.
This is just another opportunity for them to reach their fanbase in Pukekohe and out South Auckland and put out a performance our people can be proud of.
The past three encounters between Moana Pasifika and the Force have all been closely contested, with margins of eight points or less setting up what’s expected to be another entertaining clash.
The compact Pukekohe venue is also expected to provide fans with an intense and up-close matchday experience.
Meanwhile, the Moana Pasifika is set to face the Fijian Drua at 3.35pm on Saturday.
The Drua are expected to name their matchday 23 today, with Moana Pasifika set to arrive in the country tomorrow.
In other games, the Highlanders will host the Crusaders at 6.05pm on Friday, the Waratahs will meet the Reds at 8.35pm on Friday, the Blues will face the Chiefs at 6.05pm on Saturday while the Force will play the Brumbies at 8.35pm.
Source: MOANA PASIFIKA