“Despite significant efforts to secure the resources required to stage the tournament, Oceania Rugby has determined that it cannot deliver the event to the standard expected by participating teams and hosting partners.”
The organisation said stakeholder funding commitments, including support from World Rugby, had been met but Oceania Rugby was unable to satisfy its own funding requirements within the available timeframe.
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell said Rotorua would have been a great place to host the Oceania Rugby 7s Cup.
“The news that this event needed to be cancelled was disappointing because we’ve had such great support and exposure for our sevens players lately.
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell. Photo / Laura Smith
“I really feel for Oceania Rugby having to make this difficult decision.”
Tapsell said she was excited to have teams, supporters and officials visit the region and enjoy its “world-class” sporting and events destination.
But she was “hopeful” the region could find other opportunities to host tournaments and would welcome conversations about bringing similar events to Rotorua in the future.
“We have a strong reputation for successfully hosting major events and we remain committed to attracting and delivering economic and community benefits through them.”
Oceania Rugby also thanked RotoruaNZ, local partners and community stakeholders for their support and said it would welcome Rotorua’s consideration as a future host.
No host has yet been selected for the 2027 Oceania Rugby 7s tournament.
RotoruaNZ head of commercial Sam Hulton said the organisation was formally advised on September 25 that the 2026 Oceania Rugby 7s Cup would not proceed.
The Oceania Rugby 7s Cup was set to be held at Rotorua International Stadium. Photo / NZME
“We had been working with Oceania Rugby and local partners on preparations for the tournament.”
Hulton said as the host destination partner, RotoruaNZ supported local co-ordination, destination marketing and connections with accommodation providers and suppliers.
He said Oceania Rugby was responsible for organising and delivering the event.
“The tournament was expected to bring visiting teams, officials and supporters to Rotorua, benefiting local businesses.
“A final economic impact forecast had not been confirmed before the cancellation.”
Hulton said RotoruaNZ had expressed interest in exploring the possibility of hosting the tournament in 2027.
“Any future involvement would be considered following further discussions with Oceania Rugby.”
Kaitlyn Morrell is a journalist for the Bay of Plenty Times and Rotorua Daily Post. She has lived in the region for several years and studied journalism at Massey University.