Mana Pasifika: A Bid to Kiwi Talent at Home

Auckland is positioning itself as the home for a second NRL team with the launch of Mana Pasifika, a bid that could change the future of rugby league in New Zealand. More than just adding another franchise, this is a chance to stop the talent drain that has seen many of our best players head to Australia in search of professional opportunities.

For years, New Zealand has been a breeding ground for NRL stars, yet a significant number of them have been forced to cross the Tasman to chase their dreams. In 2021 over 100 New Zealand-born players were reported to be contracted to Australian-based NRL clubs. With the Pasifika and Māori influence growing stronger in the sport, Mana Pasifika presents an opportunity to keep that talent at home, develop local pathways, and build a team that truly represents Aotearoa’s unique rugby league culture.

The bid has already garnered strong backing from across the Pacific and New Zealand, with key Māori and Pasifika leaders recognising its potential to unite both cultures. Rugby League Legend Ali Lauitiiti sees the potential for growth beyond the playing field. 

“If they can, why stop them? They’re elevating our people to a new level of ownership in a world-class competition. It’s about time Aotearoa had another team. It creates more opportunities for players, coaches, administrators – everyone involved in the game.”

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown agrees, calling the bid a perfect fit for the city’s diverse sporting culture. “Mana Pasifika embodies the heart of Auckland – our people, our heritage, and our love for rugby league. This team would not only strengthen the sport here but also give our young players a reason to stay and play in Aotearoa.”

Bid leader Paepaetele Geoff Brown says the franchise is more than just a new team – it’s about identity and opportunity. “For too long, we’ve seen our young players leave because they had no other choice. Mana Pasifika is about creating a professional pathway right here, at home, where our kids can grow up dreaming of playing for their own people.”

Pacific NRL players are also throwing their support behind the bid. Three time Premiership winner Spencer Leniu told Coconet he believes it’s the right move. “The talent of New Zealand-born NRL players is enormous! You only have to look at the likes of James Fisher-Harris, Joseph Manu, Nelson Asofa-Solomona. These are players who could have built something special here but were recruited by Australian clubs. The Pacifica players make up over 45% of the NRL! So I think it’s only right as New Zealand has a large representation of Pacifica players that we get another New Zealand based NRL team.”

Speaking to ABC Pacific, Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton said, “It'll be mad. I feel like rugby league is growing in New Zealand, and with a lot of talent here, it’s a waste just having one Warriors team.” Titans captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui echoed this, saying, “The percentage [of Pacific players] is real high now. It will only keep growing, and it’s exciting to see.”

West Tigers captain Apisai Koroisau called it “a great move” for the game, while Broncos prop Payne Haas said, “Anytime we can represent our people in the NRL, it’s pretty cool. I hope they get it.”

Mana Pasifika’s bid is about more than just competing in the NRL – it’s about building a future where Kiwi and Pasifika players don’t have to leave home to make it big. With the right backing, the team could not only strengthen the local game but also take matches to Samoa, Tonga, and the Cook Islands, ensuring that the Pacific truly has a team to call its own.

While the final decision on expansion is still pending, one thing is clear: New Zealand has the talent, the passion, and now the opportunity to bring another NRL team home. Mana Pasifika is more than a bid – it’s a movement to keep our players where they belong.

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By Tikilounge Productions & Creative New Zealand Toi Aotearoa
Arts & Culture Journalist Destiny Momoiseā