Junior Tonu'u: Pacific rugby must follow Fiji's lead as Sāmoa and Tonga face key reset

Fiji rugby’s rise should be the blueprint for Sāmoa and Tonga, as former All Black Ofisa “Junior” Tonuʻu warns Pacific rugby needs stronger systems, not just passion, if it wants lasting success.

Tonu'u says that, for Pacific rugby to truly rise, passion must be matched by better organisation.

In an interview with Tuilage William Leolahi on Pacific Huddle, the 55-year-old former Sāmoan international says Pacific rugby's heart is strong, but without structure, its future is fragile.

He also warns that New Zealand's All Blacks must show real unity. Experts believe that Pacific rugby is at its most promising point in years.

The Flying Fijians have pushed into the world’s top tier, Tonga's 'Ikale Tahi continue to build depth, and Manu Sāmoa have secured their Rugby World Cup place despite a turbulent qualifying campaign.

But behind the big moments on the field, the foundations of Pacific rugby remain uneven. Funding challenges, player drain, and unstable leadership have created an environment where passion does most of the work, and where progress can stall without proper support.

Listen to Ofisa 'Junior' Tonu'u's full interview below ahead of the All Blacks-Wales and Fiji-Spain test matches on the weekend.

It’s against this backdrop that Tonu'u is urging Pacific unions to strengthen their structures before expecting consistent results.

The Sāmoa cricket rep says the heart and pride in Sāmoa rugby are unquestionable, but warns that emotion alone can’t carry the team. He believes Sāmoa’s recent struggles highlight deeper issues off the field.

“Sāmoa is the people’s team, but we need stronger governance, fresh leadership and real investment if we want to compete long-term. If you’re coaching a Pacific team, you must understand what matters to the people and their culture.”

Fiji’s tier-one rise is reshaping expectations across the Pacific rugby landscape. Photo/Photosport

Tonuʻu points to the Flying Fijians’ success as an example for Manu Sāmoa and Tonga's 'Ikale Tahi to study closely, saying Fiji's tier-one rise “shows what happens when the whole organisation is aligned”.

Fiji are the only Pacific nation in the top 10 World Rugby rankings. Sāmoa are in 17th place, while Tonga are in 19th spot.

Shifting to New Zealand, Tonuʻu says the All Blacks have plenty of young talent ready to step up, but says the team is at a “pivotal” moment heading towards the 2027 World Cup.

Listen to Pacific Huddle host Tuilagi William Leolahi's breakdown of the weekend sports action below.

Despite victories over Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, the All Blacks failed to secure a Grand Slam in the Autumn Nations Series after being humbled by England at Twickenham last week.

Tonu'u believes that selectors must also show courage. He also raised concerns about the Pacific teams' internal alignment.

“Do we stick with experience, or do we trust the next generation? They need to be brave, bold, and fearless.

“It’s not bad people in the coaching group, but something isn’t connecting. You need a strong ego as an All Black, but only if it’s going in the same direction.”

Ofisa (Junior) Tonu'u with his son Salyn Tonu’u. Photo/Photosport/Andrew Cornaga

Richie Mo’unga return could be a major shift

Tonuʻu welcomed Richie Mo’unga’s upcoming return to New Zealand rugby, saying it may be the steady influence the All Blacks need in the key No. 10 role.

New Zealand Rugby and the Crusaders have praised Mo’unga’s leadership, calling his comeback a major asset for the national programme in 2026.

Tonu'u believes Mo’unga’s return strengthens the case for bold selection calls: “Bringing Richie home could be the move that shows New Zealand is serious about backing its best.”

Richie Mo'unga shares a light moment with All Blacks players in Dunedin in 2024. Photo/Photosport/Andrew Cornaga

A voice spanning both worlds

Tonuʻu’s perspective is shaped by his deep roots in both Pacific rugby and the All Blacks’ elite system.

His message is simple:

• Pacific teams need a strong structure to match their passion.

• New Zealand must reconnect its talent, culture and leadership if it wants to regain consistency.

With both regions pushing for progress, he believes the future of rugby across the Pacific can be stronger if the right decisions are made now.

Listen to Mils Muliaina's full interview ahead of the All Blacks-Wales test match.