Moana Pasifika return home with starstudded squad and big Super Rugby season ahead

South Auckland rugby fans have reason to celebrate: Moana Pasifika is returning home for its first 2026 Super Rugby Pacific match at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe.

On Friday, 27 February, the team will host the Western Force, kicking off at 7.05pm, in what promises to be a thrilling, close-quarters battle.

For Moana Pasifika, South Auckland is more than just a venue. It’s a community and cultural heartland.

Many players grew up or continue to base themselves in the area, and the stadium’s compact design allows fans to feel every tackle, try, and break in a truly immersive match-day experience.

The last three clashes with the Force were all decided by eight points or fewer, setting up expectations for another nail-biting encounter.

Moana Pasifika's Head Coach, Fa’alogo Tana Umaga, says the return to Pukekohe is deeply personal.

Members of the Moana Pasifika squad form a huddle at the end of training. The 2026 team blends experienced campaigners with exciting new talent ahead of their homecoming clash against the Force in Pukekohe. Photo/Photosport/Alan Lee

“We've got strong connections across the Counties Manukau area," he says in a statement. "Many of our squad have played here and still base themselves here.

"It’s always special going back to a place that means a lot to me as a former player and coach for Counties Manukau.

"This is an opportunity to reach our fans and put out a performance our people can be proud of."

Moana Pasifika coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga and new captain Miracle Faiilagi will steer the team in 2026. Photo/PMN News/Candice Ama

Moana Pasifika name team for Waitangi Day pre-season clash

But before the home opener, Moana Pasifika head south for a pre-season showdown against the Highlanders at the Queenstown Events Centre on Waitangi Day.

This is the first real chance for the squad to test new combinations, with seasoned campaigners from 2025 joined by exciting new talent.

One of the most anticipated match-ups sees former All Black powerhouse Ngani Laumape paired with Manu Sāmoa flyer Lalomilo Lalomilo in the midfield, while Miracle Faiilagi takes the captaincy reins for the first time.

Loose forward Ofa Topeni steps into the number seven jersey, filling in for Niko Jones (injured) and Semisi Paea (suspended with Tonga).

Topeni’s rise reflects the pathway Moana Pasifika is creating for local talent. A standout at Dilworth School, he captained Auckland Marist Premier club and made his first-class debut during the 2025 NPC season.

Fans across the Tasman will also be watching towering winger Israel Leota, a former Brisbane Broncos top 30-squad member and NRL Premiership winner.

Former captain Ardie Savea, who will not be featuring for Moana Pasifika this season, celebrates his side's historic win over the Blues in 2025. Photo/Photosport

Depth is a defining feature of this year’s squad. Bench players like Denzel Samoa, Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou, and Melani Matavao bring finishing power and experience, while emerging stars and wider training squad recruits add energy and versatility.

Moana Pasifika is sending a clear message: this season is about Pacific talent, cultural pride, and exciting, competitive rugby.

With its first homecoming in 2026 and a pre-season test full of emerging talent, star players, and leadership changes, Moana Pasifika is not just starting a season, they’re reconnecting with their roots, celebrating Pacific rugby, and setting the tone for an exciting year ahead.

For more details on the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific competition, click here.

Moana Pasifika starting XV against the Storm on Waitangi Day: (1-15) Abraham Pole, Millennium Sanerivi, Chris Apoua, Tom Savage, Allan Craig, Miracle Faiilagi (c), Ofa Topeni, Semisi Tupou Ta'eiloa, Jonathan Taumateine, Patrick Pellegrini, Solomon Alaimalo, Ngani Laumape, Lalomilo Lalomilo, Tevita Ofa, and William Havili. Impact/Bench: Alefosio Aho, Denzel Samoa, Dominic Ropeti, Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou, Glen Vaihu, Israel Leota, Jackson Garden-Bachop, Julian Savea, Konrad Toleafoa, Malakai Hala-Ngatai, Mamoru Harada, Melani Matavao, Ofa Tauatevalu, Sam Tuitupou, Samiuela Moli, Siaosi Nginingini.