Kyren Taumoefolau reflects on his journey with Moana Pasifika

Moana Pasifika’s 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season kicked off with a heart-breaking one-point defeat against the Western Force in Perth last weekend.

Despite the loss, the team showed their potential, with young winger Kyren Taumoefolau scoring two tries.

Reflecting on the narrow defeat, Taumoefolau acknowledged the disappointment but remained optimistic about the team’s performance.

“Our preparation for the six weeks going into that game was really good. We showcased what we’ve got, and now we’ll take the areas we need to work on and bring it to the next game.

“The energy within the team remains high despite the result. The boys collectively played pretty well. It just came down to a few moments, especially that last moment at the end.”

Taumoefolau also highlighted the team’s resilience and camaraderie.

“The energy in the group is really high. We had eight debutants, and everyone’s very excited to come into this week.

“We went straight into reviews after the game with the Force. We wanted to get the learnings done straight away so we can focus on the next game.”

Watch Kyren Taumoefolau's full interview on PMN Tonga below.

Representing his Pacific heritage with Moana

For Taumoefolau, playing for Moana Pasifika means representing his family, his heritage, and the Pacific community.

“There’s not many teams like it around the world. Playing for your Pasifika team, you’re representing your people, your family. It’s a special group to be a part of, and anyone who comes in is warmly welcomed. It gives you the confidence to do your thing on the field.”

After representing Tonga in both sevens and the Rugby World Cup, Taumoefolau made his way to Super Rugby through the Moana Pasifika team.

“It’s been a full ride,” he said, reflecting on his career so far. I played for the Tonga Sevens squad, then the Rugby World Cup, and now I’m here with Moana Pasifika and the Tasman Mako. It’s been an incredible journey.”

He also spoke about the importance of family in his career.

“Every time I touch the grass on the field, I’m always representing. I know I’m representing my family, my last name, and the kingdom of Tonga.

Photo/Moana Pasifika media.

“My dad is a big part of why I chose to play for Tonga, and I hope I’m representing them well every time I step onto the field.”

Taumoefolau says the most anticipated moment of the season will be Moana Pasifika’s first home game at North Harbour Stadium.

“It’s going to be special. We haven’t had a proper home game in a long time, so to be at North Harbour Stadium with our people will be incredible. The fan base is a big part of Moana Pasifika, and we can’t wait to represent them.”

Moana Pasifika take on the Queensland Reds in Brisbane on Friday (9.30pm NZ time) in round two of the Super Rugby Pacific competition.