When Moana Pasifika arrive and leave the Auckland International Airport for away games, the same person is always there to greet them with a smile – superfan Fero Lini or ‘Aunty’ as some players call her.
Lini works for Smarte Carte at the airport. She’s been a passionate Moana Pasifika supporter since the team’s inception in 2021.
“I was a big fan of Christian Lealiifano. I know him well and have followed him throughout his career. When Moana Pasifika started and he joined I thought this it, this is home,” Lini says.
When she’s able get time off work she follows the team around the Pacific, making trips to Australia, the Islands or other parts of New Zealand to watch the team play.
“Anywhere that they play I am happy,” Lini says.
She was there for Moana Pasifika’s historic first match in Apia in 2023.
“The crowd was nuts, the vibe and energy I felt was totally different to what we have here in New Zealand. It was quite an experience and I loved it.”
She also flew to Sydney to witness Moana Pasifika’s thrilling win against the Waratahs in their final game of 2023.
Lini remembers the euphoria of that victory, the butterflies and excitement of being on the same flight back home as the team.
“When we got home there were hugs all around and we said our goodbyes. I really felt like I was part of the team. It was cool to see what they’re like in their environment, on and off the field they’re real down to earth guys.”
While she’s a huge rugby fan, she also cares about the players as people.
“For me it’s about checking on their wellbeing and asking are you OK? You don’t know what they’re going through internally. That’s why I always like to be there and to give them a bit of encouragement.”
Lini has three sons Mar’quel, DuShawn and Riley, who often travel with her to games when they’re not working.
She lived in Canberra for 10 years before moving back to New Zealand to look after her mum.
In Australia she was closely connected to the local rugby community and followed former Moana Pasifika and Australian Secondary Schools’ flanker Jack Lam throughout his early rugby journey.
“Jack used to look after my son sometimes when they were younger. He is one of many role models for my sons in the rugby environement they grew up in.”
Lini has seen the changes Moana Pasifika has experienced over the past four years, with new players and staff coming and going.
“I believe in this team and as a fan I feel like it’s my responsibility to be there for the boys cause they work so hard. Even through the wins and losses they put all their effort into it. That’s why I turn up because I really believe in this team.”
“From the beginning I’ve seen the potential in Moana to take it that next step further. Just imagine the possibilities when you see young men come into this competition and see them develop.”
“Jonathan Taumateine has grown, the Inisi brothers, William Havili and Alamanda (Motuga) too.”
Last week the legendary Sir Michael Jones surprised Lini at work, presenting her with a 2025 membership and recognising her as a devoted fan.
With the 2025 season around the corner, she’s looking forward to cheering the team on, no matter where that may be.
ENDS
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