New Zealand Rugby (NZR) have confirmed that Moana Pasifika will not compete in the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
The decision comes after NZR concluded the process of exploring ‘every possibility for a long-term solution’ to transfer the license over and keep the club afloat, but after several extensions to the initial May 15 deadline, none of the interested parties were able to satisfy the capital and business plan requirements to secure the license.
As a result, Super Rugby Pacific will move to a 10-team competition from next season, with further details on the structure to be released in the coming weeks.
Moana Pasifika to withdraw from Super Rugby Pacific
Commenting on the news, NZR chief financial officer, Chris Kinraid, said: “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.”
In a statement, Super Rugby Pacific added: “Super Rugby Pacific acknowledges the decision by New Zealand Rugby to not approve the transfer of Moana Pasifika’s participation licence to any new party for the 2027 season.
“We recognise this outcome is disappointing for everyone connected with the club, including players, coaches, staff, supporters, 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.
“In light of this outcome, further details regarding the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season format will be communicated in the coming weeks.”
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Moana Pasifika steadily improved throughout their time in the Pacific competition, with the 2025 season seeing them secure their highest-ever finish of seventh.
‘We are aware of credible interest in future participation’
But as Kinraid detailed, they could be resurrected beyond 2027 should any party seeking to secure the license meet the minimum financial requirements of a long-term business plan and demonstrate committed and viable 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,” added Kinraid.
“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.”
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