Photo: PhotosportWhile the hunger for poaching Pacific rugby talent appears insatiable, the same appetite does not exist for providing for the Islands. Listen to RNZ's Fair Game: Pacific Rugby Against the World podcast. World Rugby, which provided establishment support when Moana entered Super Rugby, no longer contributes to those operational expenses. Umaga was diplomatic when asked if the greater rugby world is incentivised to keep the islands under-funded and under-resourced. Photo: AAP / www.photosport.nzUnder minimum broadcast standards, staging a Super Rugby game in Tonga requires transporting roughly three tonnes of equipment into the country - costs the club must cover themselves.

Source: New Zealand Herald February 25, 2026 22:00 UTC