Ardie Savea begins new chapter as Moana Pasifika captain

In a move that signals a new era for Moana Pasifika, All Blacks star Ardie Savea has been named captain for the 2025 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season.

The dynamic loose forward, who has earned 94 Test caps for the All Blacks, will debut for Moana Pasifika this year.

For the 31-year-old, the opportunity to lead the team is both an honour and a calling.

“It’s pretty special, and I believe it’s God’s purpose for me to lead,” Savea said.

“When I signed with the team, Tana [Umaga] spoke to me about the captaincy, and I went away to think about it. After spending time talking to my wife and those close to me, I realised it was the right decision to say yes.”

Savea, the 2023 World Rugby Player of the Year, approaches leadership with a focus on humility and service.

“First and foremost, I’ve got to lead myself,” he said.

“That’s through my performance on the field, how I operate at training, and my actions off the field as well. I also want to serve the brothers, serve the team, serve the franchise, and serve the people in any way I can.”

Moana Pasifika kick off their season against the Western Force in Perth on Friday 14 February, 9.35pm (NZ time).

Photo/Moana Pasifika.

Building bonds and setting standards

The team recently spent a weekend at a training camp to bond and develop chemistry before the Super Rugby season, which kicks off on 14 February.

For Savea, this was an opportunity to connect with his new teammates.

“Some of the boys I’d never met before, so this weekend in camp has been awesome,” he said.

“Being able to lean on the great leaders that are already here has been really special.”

Savea’s leadership journey has been a consistent theme throughout his career.

From captaining the Rongotai College First XV to leading the Hurricanes and the All Blacks, he has continually set high standards and inspired those around him.

He now aims to bring that same energy and commitment to Moana Pasifika.

A coach’s confidence

Moana Pasifika head coach Tana Umaga says he is confident in Savea’s ability to lead the team to new heights.

“Ardie is a hard worker and an incredible role model who pushes others to be better by setting a high standard for himself, both professionally and personally,” Umaga said.

“That’s something that stands out for us as a good leader—someone who brings out the best in the team and uplifts others. He’s a natural leader who is going to have a massive impact on our team.”

As Moana Pasifika prepares for the 2025 season, Savea’s appointment as captain represents a significant milestone for the franchise.

His leadership, world-class skills, and unwavering dedication promise to inspire both his teammates and the wider Pasifika community.

For Ardie Savea, this new chapter is more than just a role - it’s a chance to give back, lead with purpose, and help shape the next chapter in Moana Pasifika’s story.

Fixtures (NZ time): Friday 14 February, 7.05pm - Crusaders v Hurricanes, 9.35pm Waratahs v Highlanders. Saturday 15 February, 4.35pm - Fijian Druva v Brumbies, 7.05pm Blues v Chiefs, 9.35pm Force v Moana Pasifika.