Moana Pasifika's Ereatara Enari is seen during the Super Rugby Pacific match between Crusaders and Moana Pasifika at Orangetheory Stadium in Christchurch on April 7, 2023. Photo: SANKA VIDANAGAMA
Issues with the turf at North Harbour Stadium has forced Moana Pasifika to move their Super Rugby Pacific match against the Melbourne Rebels to Hamilton.
The game is schedule for Friday 8 March.
Two weeks out from the match, North Harbour Stadium operator Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU) is not confident the main stadium's playing surface will be good enough for professional rugby, given the slower than anticipated growth of the new turf.
"Moana Pasifika has enjoyed making connections with the North Harbour community and while it's disappointing for fans to miss out on the chance to watch the team play here, we look forward to continuing to deliver other events in the area over the next few weeks," said Moana Pasifika CEO Pelenato Sakalia.
"We hope to bring the team back to North Harbour Stadium for a game in the very near future and we will be discussing this with TAU."
"Taking the match to Waikato provides a fantastic opportunity for fans to experience Moana Pasifika's exciting brand of Pacific flair.
"Therefore, strengthening our mission to be a team for the people and to reach as many communities as we can. We want to thank the Chiefs for their support to make this happen and welcoming us into their region at short notice."
TAU said a month of extreme hot weather in Auckland severely hampered the growth of the new turf, despite the best efforts of TAU's experienced turf contractor.
Refunds will be provided for all ticket holders who are unable to travel to FMG Stadium for the fixture.
For fans wanting to attend the match in Hamilton, tickets will be reissued at no additional cost.