Pacific voices reflect on Scott Robertson exit as All Blacks look ahead

The All Blacks are at a crossroads after Scott Robertson’s (Razor) shock departure as head coach, with two years still on his contract.

Razor’s exit on Thursday has sent ripples through New Zealand rugby. The move comes after a turbulent 2025 season that saw historic losses and rising concerns about team culture.

The decision has sparked widespread reaction, with former players, commentators, and Pacific advocates weighing in on what it means for the future of the national side.

Former All Black halfback Ofisa Tonu’u says while the team faces challenges, there is still talent and leadership to build on.

“It’s not terminal, in the way, where we’re heading. I mean, the talent is still there. We’ve still got some good people that are behind the scenes, and these sort of things happen,” Tonu’u, who debuted for New Zealand in 1996, told Pacific Mornings host William Terite.

Tonu’u highlighted the role of Pacific voices within New Zealand rugby, praising the work of the New Zealand Pacific Rugby Council (NZPRC). “I’m also really happy with Saveatama [Eroni Clarke] getting a vote for us in the Pacific Island vote in New Zealand Rugby,” he says.

Ardie Savea of New Zealand post-match against the Australian Wallabies. Photo/Daniel Carson/Photosport

Among key Pacific All Blacks, Ardie Savea reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with last season and is taking a sabbatical with Japanese club Kobe in 2026.

“I think in terms of timing, everybody’s going on the cycle of World Cups, so we’ve got a couple of years. But we have the stock, we have the ability, we have people, and I’m also really happy with Saveatama [Eroni Clarke] getting a vote for us in the Pacific Island vote in New Zealand Rugby.”

Tonu’u believes Savea’s love for the All Blacks remains strong.

New Zealand Rugby Chair David Kirk talks to the media as Scott Robertson departs his role as Head Coach of the All Blacks. Photo/Andrew Cornaga/Photosport

“Ardie’s got his goals, there’s one thing that’s missing on his mantel piece and that’s probably a World Cup medal… There's lots of things in front of him so he’s got decisions to make for himself and his future.

“But I still think that he loves the All Blacks so much, and he wants that All Blacks World Cup victory in Australia. Savea might not be happy now, but I’m sure the time away playing in Japan, he’ll come back and see his family, get back on New Zealand soil, and will just be jumping to get back into that black jersey.”

Robertson leaves a strong domestic record behind, guiding the Crusaders to seven consecutive Super Rugby titles.

But his leap to the international arena was more turbulent than expected. Historic losses last year Argentina’s first home win against the All Blacks in August, a heavy defeat to the Springboks, and the Twickenham loss to England, sparking questions about team culture.

Tonu’u reflected on Robertson’s approach. “Razor loves the team environment. He was such a good team man when he was a player and you can see in those other areas where he’s been successful, he is really in touch and really personable to all his players.

“It just doesn’t seem that translated to the All Blacks game where he was more of a manager-type role and not so much on the grass with the players and hands on,” Tonu’u says.

Listen to Ofisa Tonu'u's full interview below.

NZR chairman David Kirk, expressed gratitude for Roberston‘s contribution and confirmed a wide search for the next All Blacks coach.

“It’s the greatest rugby coaching role in the world and we’re very hopeful we’ll see plenty of highly qualified candidates,” Kirk tells a media conference on Thursday.

Kirk says 20 players were spoken to and there was a “consistent theme”. "It’s not player power, it’s mature and appropriate listening to players. There is no revolt by the players at all, the players are very thoughtful and measured in their responses."

Referring to suggestions that Savea was behind a player-led move to remove Robertson, Kirk said: "It's very unfair to say that Ardie [Savea] led something."

In a statement, Robertson said that coaching the All Blacks had been the "honour of my life. I am incredibly proud of what this team has achieved and of the progress we have made.

“We have brought through a talented group of young players, strengthened the depth across the squad, and set solid foundations for the years ahead."