Moana Pasifika will not participate in Super Rugby Pacific beyond 2027 after New Zealand Rugby rejects bids intended to rescue the franchise. Multiple outlets report that New Zealand Rugby’s decision means the team will not be involved in the next Super Rugby season, and that the franchise’s immediate continuation efforts fail despite attempts to keep it afloat. RNZ Pacific and Otago Daily Times both state that the governing body turns down several proposals to save the franchise, leading to Moana Pasifika’s exit. Stuff similarly describes the outcome as a “life support” measure ending, following a final reprieve that is ultimately rejected.
While Moana Pasifika is set to stop competing in Super Rugby Pacific next year, Otago Daily Times reports New Zealand Rugby says the “door is open” beyond 2027, implying the organisation may consider future options at a later stage. An additional RNZ Pacific piece frames the decision as part of wider questions about the sustainability and future structure of the Super Rugby competition, though those points are presented as analysis rather than direct changes announced by officials.
