Moana Pasifika.
Photo: Andy Radka/ActionPress
Shareholders of Moana Pasifika have voted to appoint liquidators to the holding company of the Super Rugby team.
Teneo Financial Advisory was appointed as liquidator late yesterday afternoon.
The franchise signalled earlier this year that it was likely to disband unless it could find new investors to fund the team.
In a statement, the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) said it could no longer continue funding the team.
“The boards of directors of both PMA and Moana Pasifika have resolved to appoint liquidators.
“We are proud to have supported the franchise over the past two years and are deeply disappointed to have reached this point. We acknowledge the dedication of the players, staff, and supporters, and we sincerely thank everyone who has been part of the Moana Pasifika journey.”
In April, the club released a statement saying the team would disband at the end of the 2026 season.
“After 5 years of competing in the Super Rugby competition and engaging with communities, Moana Pasifika have made the difficult and heartbreaking decision to disband their Super Rugby franchise following the conclusion of the 2026 season.”
The club said the decision came after extensive consideration of the financial, operational, and strategic realities facing the franchise as well as professional rugby in New Zealand.
“Despite the tireless dedication of players, staff, and supporters, it is no longer viable to continue the franchise at this level of competition,” the club said.
At the time, Moana Pasifika chairman Dr Kiki Maoate said it was one of the hardest decisions they had ever made.
“Our commitment now is to ensure a smooth transition for everyone affected and to celebrate our legacy by finishing the season strong.”
In 2021, the Moana Pasifika Charitable Trust was founded by Savae La’auli Sir Michael Jones and Tuifa’asisina Sir Bryan Williams, with a mission to create the first professional Pacific rugby team.
Earlier in the 2026 season, head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga called on World Rugby to provide more financial support to Moana.
“We don’t get funding from them anymore, and that’s their decision,” he said.
“But if you look around the world, around how many Pacific Island players are playing in all these different countries, you don’t want to lose sight of who we represent and what we can do for this game.”
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