Moana Pasifika placed into liquidation as doubt over Super Rugby future grows

Moana Pasifika has been put into liquidation after shareholders voted to appoint liquidators to the holding company of the Super Rugby Pacific team.

Teneo Financial Advisory was appointed as liquidator late on Monday.

The move comes after the franchise announced last month that it would likely disband unless new investors could be found to keep it afloat.

RNZ has reported that, in a statement, the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA), one of the key backers of the team, said it could no longer continue funding the franchise.

“The boards of directors of both PMA and Moana Pasifika have resolved to appoint liquidators," the report said. “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.”

Moana Pasifika players huddle during a match in the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, where the team has faced ongoing financial uncertainty off the field. Photo/Photosport/Andrew Cornaga

On 15 April, the club had already confirmed it would disband at the end of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season unless fresh investment was secured.

“After five 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 in a statement.

It said the call came after “extensive consideration” of the financial, operational and strategic realities facing the franchise and 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.

Chairman Dr Kiki Maoate said at the time it was one of the hardest decisions the organisation had faced.

Fans show their support for Moana Pasifika at a Super Rugby Pacific game. The club’s future now hangs in the balance following the appointment of liquidators. Photo/Photosport/Elias Rodriguez

“Our commitment now is to ensure a smooth transition for everyone affected and to celebrate our legacy by finishing the season strong.”

Moana Pasifika was founded in 2021 through the Moana Pasifika Charitable Trust, established by Savae La’auli Sir Michael Jones and Tuifa’asisina Sir Bryan Williams, with the goal of creating the first professional Pacific rugby team.

On the field, the side has struggled for consistency in the 2026 season. Coached by former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga, Moana Pasifika sits at the bottom of the Super Rugby Pacific table, with its only win this year coming against the Fijian Drua in the opening round.

Last season, the team showed stronger form under All Blacks star Ardie Savea, finishing seventh after six wins. But in 2026, they were unable to repeat that performance.

The liquidation comes just days before the final round of Super Rugby Pacific, and follows months of uncertainty over the club’s financial future.

Watch Kanaloa Rugby's full interview with William Terite on Pacific Mornings below.

Earlier, PMN News reported interest from potential rescue efforts, including talks involving Kanaloa as part of discussions around a possible bid to support or restructure the franchise.

Unless a new owner is found to take over the licence, Super Rugby Pacific is expected to be reduced to 10 teams.