Independent review clears Moana Pasifika backers of wrongdoing

Moana Pasifika’s owners have been cleared of misusing public funding following an independent review commissioned earlier this year.

In June, allegations surfaced that taxpayer money intended for Whanau Ora initiatives had been used to support the Super Rugby Pacific franchise. Te Puni Kokiri, the Government’s principal policy adviser on Maori wellbeing and development, launched a review into Pasifika Medical Association Group (PMA), the club’s parent organisation.

The review has now concluded and found no evidence that Whanau Ora commissioning funds were diverted to fund Moana Pasifika’s professional rugby programme.

In a statement, the club said the findings “reinforced Moana Pasifika’s commitment to accountability and integrity”. Chief executive Debbie Sorensen described the outcome as part of a “clear, forward path” for the organisation, while NZR chair David Kirk called the review’s conclusion “pleasing” and confirmed Moana Pasifika’s continued place in Super Rugby Pacific.

“NZR notes the pleasing outcome of the review by Te Puni Kokiri into the use of government funds by Pasifika Futures and looks forward to Moana Pasifika’s continued involvement in Super Rugby Pacific next season,” said Kirk.

The allegations had threatened to cast a shadow over the Auckland-based side, which was established in 2020 to provide a professional pathway for Pasifika players and entered Super Rugby Pacific in 2022.

Moana Pasifika – spearheaded by All Blacks superstar Ardie Savea – are coming off their most successful season to date and are set to compete in the 2026 campaign with government backing confirmed to remain intact.