Pasifika rugby stars and families celebrate at Hall of Fame awards

Eden Park was alive with celebration as the third annual Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame honoured Pacific rugby heroes, past and present, and the families who support them.

Parents, players, and pioneers filled the stage on Thursday night to share in the pride of achievements that span generations.

Among those honoured was Leanavata’ua Toto’ali’i Joseph Aukuso Sua’ali’i, who was awarded the Waisale Serevi Men’s Breakthrough Player of the Year.

His parents flew in from Australia to accept the award on his behalf, marking his breakout debut season with the NSW Waratahs and Australian Wallabies, ahead of his switch from league to union in 2025.

In the women’s category, 19-year-old Braxton Sorensen-McGee was awarded the Monique Hirovanaa Women’s Breakthrough Player of the Year.

Her mother, Nicole, said she is blown away by the rapid rise of her daughter’s success.

Braxton Sorensen-McGee with her mother, Nicole (left), and partner, Jami (right).

“As her mum, I always knew she would amount to something. I just didn’t realise it would happen as fast as it did happen.

“I’m extremely proud of her, she’s played since she was seven and it’s always been her dream. So to be able to watch her out there and live her dream, that’s what any parent wants for their kid.”

Braxton herself is still taking it all in. “I feel like probably when I was 18, I didn’t think that I’d be here at all,” she said. “I just feel really privileged, honoured, and grateful to be able to do what I do.”

Luamanuvao Muliagatele Niuafolau Alaisalatemaota Bakulich-Leavasa. Photo/Eroti Navuku/PMN News

Also celebrated was Siokapesi Palu, with her father Anolo accepting on her behalf after the Wallaroos captain received the Seiuli Fiao’o Fa’amausili Women’s Player of the Year award.

The Hall of Fame inducted seven Pacific rugby stalwarts in 2026, including tributes to late legends.

Former All Black Jerry Collins was recognised for his unforgettable presence and role as the heartbeat of the Wellington Hurricanes.

Collins, who passed away in 2015, had his father To'omata Frank Collins accept the award.

The only woman inducted was Luamanuvao Muliagatele Niuafolau Alaisalatemaota Bakulich-Leovasa, who was celebrated for a 15-year career with Manusina Sāmoa.

Bakulich-Leovasa shared her thoughts on the importance of supporting women’s rugby.

“Rugby in Samoa is looked upon as a men's sport…but the women have skills as well,” she told PMN Sāmoa. “So It's very important that we support and develop our Rugby back home so they can achieve their goals.”

Iconic Fijian rugby figure Pio-Bosco Tikoisuva was also honoured for his immense contribution to the sport during the 1960s and 70s.

Former All Black Maiavatele Keven Mealamu said it was “humbling” to be recognised on such a grand scale.

Niumata DJ Forbes, former All Black Sevens captain, echoed similar sentiments while looking ahead to the next generation.

“I’m getting into a lot more coaching now,” he said. “I do a little bit of work behind the scenes in the Pacific engagement space.”

Forbes says it is now a valuable opportunity to work with the next generation of Polynesian players coming through.

He says that is where his “heartstrings get pulled on, closer to the ground on the grass, doing what I love.”

The night also featured musical performances from artists Junior Soqeta, and Wayno, adding to the festive atmosphere.

2026 Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame inductees:

• Jerry Collins

• Fe’ao Vunipola

• Pio-Bosco Tikoisuva

• Maiavatele Keven Mealamu

• Niumata DJ Forbes

• Luamanuvao Muliagatele Niuafolau Alaisalatemaota Bakulich-Leavasa

• Lilomaiava Aiolupotea Taufusi Salesa

Jonah Lomu Men’s Player of the Year: Ben Tameifuna

Seiuli Fiao’o Fa’amausili Women’s Player of the Year: Siokapesi Palu

Monique Hirovanaa Women’s Breakthrough Player of the Year: Braxton Sorensen-McGee

Waisale Serevi Men’s Breakthrough Player of the Year: Leanavata’ua Toto’ali’i Joseph-Aukuso Sua’ali’i