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2 April 2025 — Samoa delivered a strong performance at the Battle in the Bay strongman competition in Melbourne over the weekend, with five athletes from Strongman Samoa finishing on or near the podium across multiple divisions. The Battle in the Bay, hosted by Australia’s Strongest and Strong Geelong at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre as part of the Fitness Expo, featured competitors from across the region. Samoa’s athletes arrived well-prepared and delivered steady, disciplined performances across all events. Evangeline Taylor-Pati dominated the Open Women’s division, taking out first place with consistent lifts and confident execution across all events. Her approach was methodical, and the result left no doubt. “These events reward control and preparation,” she said. “We’ve been training for this level of pressure. Once I got through the first event clean, I knew I could settle in and keep the pace.” Teammate Elsie Pesamino followed with a strong second-place finish, while Annette Punivalu battled through a tight field to place fourth. The combined results marked a standout day for Samoa’s women, who led the team effort with calm, focused performances. In the Under 105kg Men’s division, Ryan Walker earned third place. In the Open Men’s category, Peter Anae finished second after a solid showing across all disciplines. “We came here to compete properly, not just participate,” said Anae. “The whole team stayed switched on. No one panicked, no one rushed.” Strongman Samoa acknowledged the support of BearWell, who supplied the team’s kit and backed the campaign from the outset. Their support has helped lift the sport’s profile in Samoa and enabled athletes to train and compete at higher levels. The team now shifts focus to the “Pacific Strongest”, set for 7 June in Apia. It will be the first international strongman event hosted in Samoa, bringing together visiting and local athletes for a full day of heavy events.

Moana Pasifika pulled off one of the biggest surprises of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, beating the Crusaders 45-29 in Christchurch in Round 7. It was their first-ever win over the 14-time champions—and a game that fans won’t forget anytime soon. Right from kickoff, Moana Pasifika looked sharp. Captain Ardie Savea set the tone early with two tries in the first 16 minutes. Fly-half Patrick Pellegrini kept the Crusaders under pressure with smart kicking and strong game management. The Crusaders tried to mount a comeback with tries from Macca Springer and Codie Taylor, but Moana Pasifika stayed in control. They added more tries through Danny Toala, Pellegrini, Miracle Faiilagi, and Pepesana Patafilo, with Pellegrini converting consistently to keep the scoreboard ticking. The win is a massive boost for Moana Pasifika in the standings and puts a dent in the Crusaders’ push for the top of the table. The Queensland Reds now sit first with 23 points, just ahead of the Chiefs on 22. After the match, Savea said he was proud of how the team played—with confidence, energy, and belief. It’s a result that shows Moana Pasifika are no longer underdogs—they’re contenders.

Photo: Getty Images In a commanding performance under the Saturday night lights, the Crusaders dismantled the Auckland Blues 42-19 at Eden Park in Round 6 of the Super Rugby Pacific season. The result leaves the defending champions winless at home in 2025, a concerning slide that hasn’t occurred since 2018. The Blues made a fast start, with captain Dalton Papali’i diving over in just the third minute, converted by Xavi Taele to take a 7-0 lead. But that early spark quickly faded as the Crusaders took control of the match through superior set piece execution, tactical discipline, and clinical finishing. Crusaders scrum-half Kyle Preston answered almost immediately with a try in the 10th minute. From there, the momentum swung decisively in the visitors’ favor. Winger Chay Fihaki dotted down twice—his first in the 12th minute and another just before halftime—while prop Tamaiti Williams muscled over in the 25th. The Crusaders went into the break up 23-7, having silenced the Eden Park crowd. David Havili, in a standout performance, pulled the strings brilliantly at first receiver. A true triple threat, Havili blended sharp distribution, tenacious defence, and smart kicking to keep the Blues pinned in their own half. His assist for Fihaki’s first try was a testament to his vision and composure. In the second half, the Crusaders didn’t let up. Flanker Tom Christie added a try from a rolling maul in the 51st minute, before Macca Springer crossed in the 63rd to extend the lead. The Blues managed to hit back through impact subs Marcel Renata and Finlay Christie, but the damage had long been done. Post-match, Blues head coach Vern Cotter was frank in his assessment: “Our set pieces came apart. Errors dominated key parts of the game, and you can’t give a team like the Crusaders that kind of opportunity.” He acknowledged the challenge of missing key players but took heart from the effort of the younger squad members: “I’m proud of the young boys. They stepped up tonight. We’ll take the bye as a chance to reset and regroup.” The loss continues a worrying trend for the Blues, who have now dropped their first three home games of the 2025 season. With pressure mounting, the bye week offers a vital pause to reset their title defence. For the Crusaders, the win is a statement—proof that their systems and depth remain among the most formidable in Super Rugby. They’ll take this momentum forward, while the Blues are left to search for answers.

In a pulsating Super Rugby Pacific clash under the lights at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe, the Chiefs held off a sensational second-half comeback from Moana Pasifika to claim a 50-35 victory on Friday night. The Chiefs were dominant in the opening 40 minutes, racing to a commanding 43-7 halftime lead. Their clinical first-half performance saw tries from Bradley Slater, Shaun Stevenson, Xavier Roe, Leroy Carter, Manaaki Selby-Rickit, and Damian McKenzie. McKenzie was in fine form with the boot, slotting six conversions and a penalty to help build what seemed an insurmountable advantage. But the second half told a different story. Moana Pasifika came out with renewed energy and produced a stunning fightback. William Havili sparked the surge with two tries, while Abraham Pole, Sama Malolo, and debutant Tuna Tuitama also crossed the line. Patrick Pellegrini kept the scoreboard ticking, converting all five tries to slash the Chiefs’ lead to just eight points at 43-35 with time still on the clock. Just as momentum seemed to shift, the Chiefs responded with a crucial late try from replacement hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho in the 78th minute, securing the win and denying Moana Pasifika a dramatic upset. The result keeps the Chiefs atop the Super Rugby Pacific standings, while Moana Pasifika walk away with heads held high after demonstrating grit, heart, and attacking flair that promises more to come this season.

Manu Samoa 7s team during training - Photo: Manu Samoa 7s As the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger 2025 heats up, the race for promotion back to the HSBC SVNS intensifies. Following an action-packed second round in Cape Town, the top eight men’s teams—Germany, Canada, Portugal, Chile, Samoa, Japan, Madagascar, and Tonga—have booked their places in the third round in Krakow, Poland, set for April 11-12. Among these teams, several are no strangers to rugby sevens' elite level. Canada, Samoa, and Portugal have all previously held core status in the HSBC SVNS, and now they are fighting for a return to the top tier of international sevens rugby. A Critical Pathway to HSBC SVNS The HSBC Sevens Challenger serves as a gateway to the prestigious HSBC SVNS, offering aspiring teams a chance to compete on the sport’s biggest stage. The top four teams from the Challenger series will qualify for the HSBC SVNS Play-Off, held in Los Angeles on May 3-4, where they will battle for promotion. For teams with a history in the SVNS, the stakes are even higher. Canada, Samoa, and Portugal, once regulars in the world series, now seek to reclaim their place among rugby’s sevens elite. Teams with HSBC SVNS Experience Looking for Redemption Canada: A Return to the Big Stage? Canada was a core team in the HSBC SVNS from the 2008–09 season until 2023–24. They enjoyed a strong run in the circuit, with their best-ever finish being 4th place in 2021. However, after a disappointing 2023–24 campaign, they were relegated and are now fighting to regain their position. Samoa: A Former Champion on the Comeback Trail Samoa is one of the most successful teams to have fallen out of the HSBC SVNS. Having been a core team from 1999–00 to 2023–24, they were once among the world’s best, winning the entire series in the 2009–10 season. The Pacific Islanders are now on a mission to return to the world’s top rugby sevens competition. Portugal: Seeking a Revival Portugal held core status from 2012–13 to 2015–16, with their best finish being 14th place in the 2014–15 season. While they have been absent from the top tier for several years, their recent performances in the Challenger series suggest they could be on the verge of a return. Krakow Showdown: A Decisive Stage With Krakow hosting the third round, teams will have one last chance to secure their standing before heading into the crucial Play-Off in Los Angeles. Alongside former SVNS teams, rising challengers such as Germany, Chile, Japan, Madagascar, and Tonga are eager to make history and earn a spot in rugby sevens' elite competition. As the Challenger series progresses, the battle for promotion is set to deliver high-intensity action, drama, and fierce competition. With history and future aspirations on the line, Krakow promises to be a defining moment in the journey back to HSBC SVNS.

Lautoka, Fiji –  In a dramatic Super Rugby Pacific clash on March 8, 2025, the Fijian Drua delivered a stunning 28-24 victory over the previously unbeaten Waikato Chiefs at Churchill Park, Lautoka. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd and under heavy rain, the Drua showcased resilience and flair to claim their first win of the season. First Half: Chiefs Dominate Early The Waikato Chiefs came into the match as strong favourites, boasting an unbeaten record this season. They quickly asserted their dominance, opening the scoring in just the third minute. Hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho  capitalised on a well-structured lineout drive to crash over the try line, giving the visitors an early 5-0 lead. Despite the challenging wet conditions, the Chiefs continued to apply pressure, with No.8 Jimmy Tupou  extending their lead in the 27th minute. His powerful close-range finish pushed the Chiefs to a 12-6 advantage at halftime, as the Drua relied on the boot of Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula , who slotted two penalty goals to keep his team within striking distance. Second Half: Drua Fight Back with Fijian Flair The Drua emerged from the break with renewed energy, and just two minutes into the second half, their captain Meli Derenalagi  burst through the Chiefs’ defensive line to score under the posts. Armstrong-Ravula added the conversion, giving the hosts a 13-12 lead and igniting the Lautoka crowd. However, the Chiefs responded almost immediately. Anton Lienert-Brown  finished off a brilliant attacking move sparked by a tactical kick from winger Leroy Carter , restoring the visitors’ lead at 17-13. Drua’s Explosive Finish Secures Victory With momentum shifting, the Drua dug deep and played to their strengths—fast-paced, unpredictable rugby. In the 65th minute, fullback Vuate Karawalevu  finished off a sweeping backline move to score, putting the Drua ahead once again at 18-17. Moments later, Ponipate Loganimasi  electrified the crowd with a stunning individual effort. The winger intercepted a Chiefs’ kick, stepped past multiple defenders, and sprinted half the length of the field to score under the posts. Armstrong-Ravula added the conversion, extending the Drua’s lead to 25-17. The Chiefs mounted a desperate comeback, and Tupou Vaa’i  powered his way over the line in the final minutes, closing the gap to 28-24. However, the Drua’s defence held firm, sealing a famous victory at Churchill Park. Drua’s Home Fortress and Implications for the Season This victory reaffirmed the Drua’s reputation as a formidable force at home, particularly at Churchill Park, where they have previously toppled top-tier teams. It also ended the Chiefs’ unbeaten run, shaking up the Super Rugby Pacific standings. Speaking after the match, Drua coach Mick Byrne praised his team’s resilience: “The conditions were tough, but the boys showed heart and belief. We knew the Chiefs were dangerous, but we stuck to our plan and made the most of our chances.” Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan acknowledged the Drua’s strong performance: “We had our chances, but credit to the Drua. They thrive in these conditions, and they made us pay for our mistakes.” What’s Next? The Drua will look to carry this momentum into their next match as they travel to face the ACT Brumbies, while the Chiefs will aim to bounce back against the NSW Waratahs. With this victory, the Drua have sent a strong message to the rest of the competition—they are not to be underestimated, especially on home soil.

Moana Pasifika delivered a statement performance  on Saturday night, claiming their first win of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season  with an exhilarating 40-31 victory over the Hurricanes  at North Harbour Stadium . While the entire team put in a spirited effort , one name stood out— Patrick Pellegrini . The young fly-half orchestrated Moana’s attack with pinpoint accuracy, smart kicking, and fearless playmaking , proving himself as the game-changer the team has been searching for. Miracle Faiilagi scoring a hat trick last night First Half: A Tight Battle Unfolds Moana Pasifika held strong in scrums, line outs, and defence , despite the Hurricanes controlling possession inside Moana’s 22 for an extended period . Braydon Iose (#8, Hurricanes)  opened the scoring, crashing over from a scrum near the Moana try line . With Harry Godfrey converting , the Hurricanes took an early 7-0 lead . Moana responded in the 18th minute , with Miracle Fai’ilagi muscling over from a ruck and maul . Pellegrini slotted the conversion—7-7. The Hurricanes quickly hit back in the 22nd minute , scoring in the corner to regain the lead 12-7 . Just before halftime , Semisi Tupou Ta'eiloa powered through , and Pellegrini’s conversion put Moana ahead 14-12 at the break . It was a closely fought first half , but Moana Pasifika’s intent was clear —they came ready to fight for their first win of the season . Kyren Taumoefolau hurdle his way to Hurricanes 20 Second Half: Pellegrini Leads Moana’s Surge Moana came out of the gates firing  in the second half, and Pellegrini led the charge  with a moment of sheer brilliance . Seconds after kickoff , Pellegrini spotted space behind the Hurricanes' defensive line , executing a perfectly weighted short kick  that led to Kyren Taumoefolau scoring a crucial try . Miracle Fai’ilagi then stole the show , bagging two more tries  in quick succession, completing a stunning hat-trick  that sent the crowd into raptures . Moana stretched their lead to 35-12 , with Pellegrini nailing a crucial conversion  to maintain the gap. At this point, Moana had complete control —their forward pack dominated the collisions , and their defence remained rock solid , forcing the Hurricanes into error after error . Hurricanes Fight Back, But Moana Holds Firm To their credit, the Hurricanes didn’t go down without a fight . Peter Lakai crashed over , and with the conversion, the Hurricanes closed the gap to 35-19 . But Pellegrini responded again , setting up Miracle Fai’ilagi for his third try , taking the score to 40-19 . Hurricanes continued to push , scoring twice more in the final 10 minutes , bringing the final score to 40-31 . Despite the late rally, Moana Pasifika’s second-half dominance had already sealed the deal . Their attacking precision, defensive grit, and Pellegrini’s masterful game management proved too much for the Hurricanes to overcome . Pellegrini: The Fly-Half Moana Needed? It’s no secret that Moana Pasifika has been searching for a true playmaker  at fly-half—and on Saturday night, they might have found their answer  in Patrick Pellegrini . His kicking game was exceptional , both in general play and off the tee. His decision-making was flawless , always choosing the right option at the right time. His running ability added an extra attacking spark , keeping the Hurricanes’ defense guessing. With Fa'alogo Tana Umaga  looking to build a competitive Moana Pasifika squad , Pellegrini’s performance will have cemented his place as the team’s first-choice No.10 . Moana Captain in celebration mode A Historic Win for Moana Pasifika This wasn’t just a win —this was a statement . Moana tightened up their errors, dominated the set-piece, and played with incredible heart , finally converting their efforts into a well-earned victory . With a bye next week , Moana can enjoy this moment  before preparing for a massive clash against the Chiefs . For the Hurricanes, this loss raises big questions . After being a title-contender in 2024 , they now find themselves struggling with a 1-3 record , hit hard by injuries and a lack of forward dominance . They now travel to Dunedin to take on the Highlanders, needing a big response . But tonight, the North Harbour crowd  is celebrating Moana Pasifika’s moment . With Miracle Fai’ilagi’s hat-trick  and Patrick Pellegrini running one of the finest games of the season , Moana has arrived . Final Score: Moana Pasifika 40-31 Hurricanes Remember the name—Patrick Pellegrini. A star is born.

Pacific Rugby Stars Call for Fair Treatment After Series of Logistical Failures Fijian rugby players and fans have voiced frustration over the treatment of the Fijian Drua during their recent Super Rugby Pacific trip to New Zealand, where the team was forced to ride in the back of a luggage truck due to travel mishaps. The situation has led to accusations of double standards, with former players and supporters calling out Super Rugby organizers for the logistical failures. The Sydney Morning Herald  first reported the travel issues, revealing that the Drua’s team bus was unexpectedly canceled upon their late-night arrival in Auckland. Instead of waiting hours for a replacement, the squad had no choice but to ride in the back of a truck booked for their luggage and equipment. To make matters worse, the Drua were denied a late checkout at their Napier hotel ahead of their match against the Hurricanes, despite sharing accommodation with their opponents. The Herald  reported that while the Fijian team had to vacate their rooms hours before kickoff, the Hurricanes were allowed to stay in the hotel until just before game time. Breakdown in Communication Acknowledged Following backlash from former players and fans, Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley admitted that the Drua’s travel experience was the result of a series of communication failures. “Essentially what happened was several oversights and breakdowns in communications were identified which created those challenges for the Drua,” Mesley said, as reported by RNZ  and The Sydney Morning Herald . “And we have now addressed those issues with the clubs and an external transport provider. But yeah, it’s really disappointing that it happened.” Nadolo Leads Criticism Former Flying Fijian international Nemani Nadolo was among the most vocal critics of the situation, questioning how such an oversight could happen in a professional competition. “What frustrates me the most is that after a long flight, the team arrives at the airport only to find that their bus is nowhere to be seen. Instead of waiting another three hours for it to arrive, the boys jump in the back of a truck to get to the hotel,” Nadolo wrote on Facebook, as reported by RNZ Sport . “To make matters worse, they're denied a late checkout, leaving them to either wander around or sleep in the lobby for hours—while the Hurricanes squad gets to rest comfortably in their rooms right up until game time.” Nadolo also pointed out the stark contrast in how New Zealand and Australian teams are treated when they travel to Fiji for matches. “When Super Rugby franchises visit Fiji, they are treated like royalty, with police escorts and top-tier hospitality. Can you imagine an Australian or New Zealand team ever being put through something like this?” Drua Look to Move On Despite the controversy, the Fijian Drua are shifting their focus back to rugby as they prepare to host the Chiefs at Churchill Park in Lautoka on Saturday. Drua head coach Glen Jackson acknowledged the challenging circumstances but emphasised that the team remains focused. “We're looking forward to getting back to Lautoka. It's a ground we really enjoy playing at, and to have an eight-day turnaround has been really good for us,” Jackson said. The Drua will be eager to secure their first win of the season after narrowly losing their first three matches. Jackson assured fans that morale remains high despite the setbacks. “Morale's very high, we're starting a fair bit of rotation of our squad. We're massively focused on how to beat the Chiefs,” he said. Calls for Change While Super Rugby Pacific has addressed the travel issues with clubs and external providers, the incident has fuelled wider discussions about equity in professional rugby. Critics argue that Pacific Island teams, such as the Drua and Moana Pasifika, continue to face challenges that other franchises do not encounter. The incident has placed pressure on competition organisers to ensure that all teams receive equal treatment and adequate logistical support. Whether meaningful changes will be implemented remains to be seen, but for now, the Fijian Drua are determined to make their mark—both on and off the field. Sources:   Sydney Morning Herald, RNZ Sport

Moana Pasifika’s highly anticipated Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Gallagher Chiefs, originally scheduled for Nuku’alofa, Tonga, has been relocated to Pukekohe due to logistical challenges, including delays in the installation of floodlights at Teufaiva Stadium. The match will now take place at Navigation Homes Stadium on Friday, March 21, at 7:05 pm. This decision has been met with disappointment from rugby fans in Tonga, who were eager to see Moana Pasifika play on home soil. Moana Pasifika CEO Debbie Sorensen acknowledged the frustration but emphasised the organisation’s commitment to bringing a game to Tonga in the future. Moana Pasifika interim CEO Debbie Sorensen. Photo / Dean Purcell “Our hearts are in the Pacific and that is where we want to be, but it wasn’t possible for this fixture due to things that were out of our hands,” Sorensen told RNZ Pacific. “It’s sad to say that we can’t make it happen this time but are already looking at how we can take a game to Tonga in 2026.” The Chiefs, who were also looking forward to playing in Tonga, expressed their support for future games in the region. “Playing in the Pacific Islands is always a highlight for us,” said Chiefs CEO Simon Graafhuis told RNZ Sport. “We were really looking forward to playing in Tonga, which is why we are supportive of playing there in 2026 if Moana Pasifika schedules another home game in Nuku’alofa.” Tonga Rugby Union CEO Aisea 'Aholelei told RNZ Pacific that the game’s cancellation was due to delays in floodlight installation at Teufaiva Stadium. “The installation of floodlights is being delayed and there were concerns that would affect the 6 pm kick-off,” he said. The Economic Reality of Hosting Games in the Pacific Beyond the logistical issues, former Moana Pasifika CEO Pelenato Sakalia has previously spoken about the financial challenges of bringing Super Rugby games to the Pacific Islands. He pointed out that while the Fijian Drua have successfully hosted games in Fiji, the economic disparities between Fiji and other Pacific nations like Tonga and Samoa make it more difficult for smaller nations to accommodate major rugby events. “When you have a look at the economic disparities between even Fiji and the likes of Tonga and Samoa, you look at the differences in infrastructure, the economic trades, the financial assistance that comes into Fiji relative to what comes into Samoa and Tonga—it’s really challenging,” Sakalia said. With a population of approximately 100,000 in Tonga and 250,000 in Samoa, the lack of scale to support specialist support services and infrastructure remains a significant hurdle. Moana Pasifika Brings the Pacific to Pukekohe Although the team won’t be playing in Tonga this time, Moana Pasifika will still aim to deliver a thrilling rugby spectacle in Pukekohe. This will be their first of two home games at Navigation Homes Stadium this season. On April 19, they will face the Brumbies at the same venue, reinforcing their commitment to engaging with the South Auckland and Counties Manukau rugby communities. This relocation also reignites discussions about the need for a dedicated Super Rugby facility in South Auckland—an issue we previously covered when Moana Pasifika announced their move to North Harbour Stadium as their home ground. Many have argued that a permanent South Auckland venue would better serve the team and its Pacific fanbase, providing a true home for Moana Pasifika in the heart of Auckland’s Pacific community. With the Pukekohe fixtures now set, fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early to witness what promises to be an exciting clash between Moana Pasifika and the Chiefs. While the dream of playing in Tonga is on hold for now, Moana Pasifika remains steadfast in their goal of bringing Super Rugby to the Pacific in the future.

Sydney, Australia –  The NSW Waratahs  clinched a dramatic 29-24 victory  over the Fijian Drua  in their Round 3 Super Rugby Pacific  clash at Allianz Stadium. In a game where the lead changed multiple times , the Drua came agonizingly close to a historic upset but fumbled the ball in the dying seconds , handing the win to the hosts. A Match of Momentum Swings From the opening whistle, both teams showed attacking intent , setting the tone for a high-energy contest. The Drua struck first  through winger Ponipate Loganimasi , who finished a well-worked attacking sequence to give his side a 7-0 lead . However, the Waratahs responded almost immediately. Langi Gleeson , one of the standout performers of the season, powered his way over the line  for a converted try to level the scores at 7-7. The see-saw battle continued when Vuate Karawalevu  produced a moment of individual brilliance, stepping past defenders  to restore the Drua’s advantage. But the Waratahs, using their forward dominance, managed to grind their way back into the game, heading into halftime with a narrow 17-12 lead . Drua’s Second-Half Fightback The second half saw the Drua turn up the tempo , showcasing their trademark flair. Loganimasi bagged his second try  of the game, cutting through the Waratahs' defense to reduce the deficit. Shortly after, Mesulame Dolokoto powered over from a rolling maul , putting the Drua ahead 24-22 with just under 15 minutes to play . With the match hanging in the balance, the Waratahs turned to their trusted rolling maul , a weapon they’ve refined under coach Dan McKellar . In the 76th minute , they were awarded a penalty try , shifting momentum back in their favor and forcing the Drua to chase the game. Heartbreak in the Final Moments With just minutes left on the clock, the Drua launched one final assault. Their powerful ball carriers pushed deep into Waratahs’ territory, and a late penalty gave them a golden opportunity to snatch victory . However, under intense pressure, the Drua fumbled the ball in contact , handing possession—and the game—to the Waratahs. The full-time whistle confirmed a 29-24 win  for the home side, leaving the Drua to reflect on another missed opportunity .

The vibrant atmosphere at North Harbour Stadium during Moana Pasifika’s latest match was nothing short of electric. The crowd, united in song, harmonised to the EFKS Samoan hymn Ia Pepese , while conch shells and the rhythmic beats of Pacific music filled the air. Though the stadium is situated on Auckland’s North Shore, the sheer presence of Pasifika supporters made it feel like a home game in South Auckland. A Team Without a Permanent Home Moana Pasifika has had a nomadic journey when it comes to finding a permanent base. The team initially shared Mt Smart Stadium with the New Zealand Warriors before briefly hosting games at Eden Park, the home of the Auckland Blues. However, as of September 2024, North Harbour Stadium has become their official home ground, with all home fixtures set to be played there in the 2025 season. Head Coach Faʻalogo Tana Umaga acknowledged the significance of a dedicated base for the team and expressed a strong desire for a purpose-built facility in South Auckland. “It would be great if there was a sporting facility in South Auckland that could host Moana Pasifika, but at this moment, there isn’t one. North Harbour is the only available stadium we can train from and call home,”  he said. Despite the distance, Umaga remains confident that Moana Pasifika’s passionate fanbase will continue to turn up in numbers. “Our people are navigators—we have always traveled. So, making the journey from South Auckland to support their team is something they will always do.” Pacific Presence in North Shore Although South Auckland is often regarded as the heart of New Zealand’s Pasifika community, North Shore also has a significant Pacific presence. According to the latest census, around 5.2% of North Shore’s population identifies as Pasifika—approximately 7,600 people. Many of them have embraced Moana Pasifika’s presence in the area, delighted to see a team representing their heritage play at North Harbour Stadium. Among the many supporters frequently spotted at games is Samoan actor Beulah Koale, best known for his role in Hawaii Five-0 . Koale has been a vocal supporter of the team, further highlighting the cultural connection Moana Pasifika fosters within the community. The Future of Moana Pasifika As Moana Pasifika continues to solidify its place in Super Rugby, discussions around a dedicated South Auckland venue remain a hot topic. For now, North Harbour Stadium is their home, but the unwavering support from the Pacific community ensures that wherever they play, the team will never be short of fans.

Final Score: Highlanders 31 - 29 Moana PasifikaDate: February 28, 2025Venue: North Harbour Stadium, Auckland Moana Pasifika produced a thrilling second-half comeback but fell just short in a 31-29  loss to the Highlanders in Round 3 of Super Rugby Pacific. A fast-finishing Moana side dominated the closing stages, but the Highlanders' first-half blitz proved enough to secure a narrow victory. First Half: Highlanders Take Control with a 21-Point Blitz The Highlanders got off to a dream start, striking within the first two minutes when Nathan Hastie  finished off a well-worked move under the posts. Sam Gilbert’s conversion  made it 7-0 early. Moana Pasifika responded quickly through Sione Mafileo (11’) , who powered over the line, but missed conversions from William Havili  meant they couldn't capitalise fully. From there, the Highlanders took control, launching a devastating 10-minute period before halftime: Caleb Tangitau intercepted a pass (31’) and sprinted 95 meters for a try , shifting the momentum firmly in the Highlanders' favor. Tanielu Tele’a (34’) and Max Dunshea (38’) added further tries , punishing Moana’s defensive lapses. Sam Gilbert converted all three tries , giving the Highlanders a commanding 31-10 halftime lead . Second Half: Moana Pasifika’s Stunning Comeback Whatever Tana Umaga said at halftime worked. Moana Pasifika came out with renewed energy, tightening their defense and attacking with purpose. Ardie Savea (46’) sparked the comeback , intercepting a kick and sprinting over the try line. William Havili (65’) added another try , set up by a clever attacking play. Patrick Pellegrini converted both tries , closing the gap to 22-31 . With five minutes to go, Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa (75’) crashed over , and Pellegrini’s conversion made it 29-31 , setting up a grandstand finish. With Moana Pasifika pressing for a match-winning score, TK Howden’s crucial lineout steal in the final minute  saved the Highlanders, allowing them to close out the game and escape with a hard-fought win. Key Takeaways for Moana Pasifika ✅ Resilient Second Half  – After a poor first half, Moana Pasifika dominated the second 40 minutes, showing grit and determination. ✅ Impact of Key Players  – Ardie Savea was everywhere , Millennium Sanerivi and Sama Malolo provided strong carries, and Pellegrini’s bench impact suggests he could start next week. ❌ Slow Start & Defensive Lapses  – Conceding 21 points in the last 10 minutes of the first half proved costly. Moana will need to improve their early-game defence. ❌ Missed Kicks at Goal  – Havili’s missed conversions in the first half ultimately made a difference, highlighting an area for improvement. What’s Next? Moana Pasifika will be disappointed to have let this one slip but can take confidence from their second-half performance. They now prepare for another big challenge against the Hurricanes next week , looking to turn their strong finish into a full 80-minute performance. For the Highlanders, this win comes as a relief after a shaky second half. They now head into a bye before facing the Hurricanes in a fortnight. While the result didn’t go their way, this match showed Moana Pasifika’s potential—if they can put together a complete performance, wins will surely follow.losses into wins as the season progresses.