Moana Pasifika and the Gallagher Chiefs are teaming up to bring Super Rugby Pacific to Rotorua for their highly-anticipated clash on Saturday April 11.
The match which was scheduled to be played in Tonga, will now be played in the Bay of Plenty at Rotorua International Stadium.
When the teams kick off at the family-friendly time of 2pm, it will provide a significant boost for Rotorua International Stadium, which is widely regarded as one of the best stadiums in New Zealand.
It has successfully hosted the NRL All Stars game in 2023 with a crowd of over 17,000 turning out to support. Last year Manu Samoa staged a home Test match there against Fiji with a crowd of around 5000 in attendance.
Moana Pasifika CEO, Debbie Sorensen, says the team is looking forward to engaging with local rugby fans.
“While we are sad we can’t take this game to Tonga, we do know that our fans and our community are everywhere – including in the Bay of Plenty region. I know Rotorua will also welcome the visit by the Chiefs, so it’s a win-win for both teams.”
Chiefs CEO, Simon Graafhuis, says it is exciting to have another game in the region after the Gallagher Chiefs played a preseason game in Mount Maunganui in January.
“We love our fans and having the chance to play in Rotorua is a real bonus for us. We know we have strong support in the city and we are confident those fans will turn out in force for this match.”
Andrew Wilson Chief Executive RotoruaNZ added: “For Chiefs and Moana Pasifika fans travelling from Auckland, Waikato and across the Bay of Plenty, this is more than just 80 minutes of rugby — it’s an opportunity to make a weekend of it in one of New Zealand’s most unique destinations.”
A number of Moana Pasifika players are deeply connected to the region. Prop Malakai Hala-Ngatai has ties back to Te Arawa which is in the Bay of Plenty region, while lock Allan Craig has ties to Ngāti Ranginui. Jackson Garden-Bachop is also proud to hail from Ngāti Awa.
Loose Forward Semisi Paea was raised in Rotorua and attended Rotorua Boys High School. He played junior rugby for Ngongotaha Rugby Club and has played for the Bay of Plenty Steamers since 2021.
Gallagher Chiefs halfback Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi was born in Rotorua, attended Rotorua Boys High School and plays for Whakarewarewa Rugby Club. He was delighted the Gallagher Chiefs will return to his hometown where they have played 13 times before.
“Rotorua is a rugby town, and I know the locals will be keen to see the boys up close.” Tahuriorangi said. “It’s superb news that the Chiefs will be playing there.”
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ENDS
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