Moana Pasifika’s highly anticipated Super Rugby Pacific match against the Chiefs has been moved from Nuku’alofa to Pukekohe, New Zealand, due to delays in stadium upgrades.
Teufaiva Stadium, set to host the game, was not ready in time, with incomplete floodlight installation cited as a major issue. Tonga Rugby Union chief executive ‘Aisea ‘Aholelei confirmed the setback.
“The installation of floodlights is being delayed and there was concerns that would affect the 6pm schedule for the game kick off,” he said.
The decision has disappointed rugby fans in Tonga, who were looking forward to seeing top-tier rugby played on home soil. The match was meant to be another milestone, bringing international rugby back to Teufaiva.
Teufaiva Stadium has faced challenges before. In 2017, it was given final approval to host Tonga’s Pacific Nations Cup rugby tests against Samoa and Fiji, marking the ‘Ikale Tahi’s first home games since 2009. However, a test against Wales had to be moved to Auckland that year after the field was deemed unfit for play.
Moana Pasifika chief executive Debbie Sorensen said the team remains committed to playing in the Pacific despite the logistical challenges.
“It’s sad to say that we can’t make it happen this time but are already looking at how we can take a game to Tonga in 2026,” she said.
The Chiefs will now face Moana Pasifika at Pukekohe’s Navigation Homes Stadium on March 21, with hopes that Tonga will successfully host a fixture in the future.
