‘They treat us like mindless monkeys’: Community leader’s furious exit from NZR advisory group

In a fiery post this morning, Tongan community leader Pakilau Manase Lua announced he has resigned from New Zealand Rugby’s Pasifika Advisory Board.

Lua says it’s a “spit in the face” to all Pacific peoples who have contributed massively to the game.

“We’ve had legends like Jonah Lomu, Sir Michael Jones, Tuifa'asisina Sir Bryan Williams. They’ve bled for the game, and this is how they treat us.

“All we asked for was a seat at the NZR board, but they keep treating us like mindless monkeys. I have nothing but love for the PAG (Pasifika Advisory Group), but I don’t think it’s fair I sit there and feel helpless.

“They’re holding the line and trying to be nice, but I said 'look we’re wasting our time' and the best thing is to act and I’m acting.”

In response, the NZR provided a statement (which you can read in full below*), reiterating its commitment to having more Pacific representation at a governance level.

“NZR acknowledges the huge contribution of Pasifika on the field and recognises that this is not reflected in equitable representation across non-playing roles, including governance,” the statement reads.

“NZR is currently supporting its voting members through a process of reform which will see a modern governance model for rugby that reflects greater diversity across gender, background and ethnicity.”

Lua’s resignation comes just months after New Zealand Rugby launched their Pasifika Strategy, a comprehensive five year plan that looked to support Pacific peoples into governance roles.

Lua says the strategy was for “show” and wasn’t a genuine move to help Pasifika get ahead in the game.

“I think they use us when they need us. It’s good PR for them to feel like they’re forward thinking, being helpful, look like they’re pro-Pasifika, like they have our best interests at heart.

“But I can tell you from being inside that we’ve had countless meetings, conversations in our Pasifika way with senior executives, the CEO and his team right to the board. Saying here’s our strategy, [but] with respect how about giving us a seat on the decision making table?

“They go, we’ll keep you as advisors and form an independent board that can really provide the governance we need. What I heard is 'you’re too dumb to offer anything to the board, we’ll go outside'.”

Lua adds that the PAG sent a letter to board chair Dame Patsy Reddy a few weeks ago, without reply.

“If they’re not gonna respect us, I’m out. I told the group last night, I can’t in good conscience remain as a member and take this s***. I’m gonna tell the communities what is going on."

*Read the full statement New Zealand Rugby below:

“NZR acknowledges the huge contribution of Pasifika on the field and recognises that this is not reflected in equitable representation across non-playing roles, including governance. NZR is currently supporting its voting members through a process of reform which will see a modern governance model for rugby that reflects greater diversity across gender, background and ethnicity. The NZR Board is committed to seeing culturally diverse voices at all levels of this governance model. NZR has recognised Pasifika as a priority area for the organisation and launched a Pasifika Strategy in November 2023 to enable, embrace and empower positive outcomes for Pasifika in rugby. The implementation of a year one action plan is already underway and reflects a long-term commitment.”