Auckland's Mt Smart stadium has been confirmed as the home ground for Moana Pasifika's Super Rugby team.
Moana Pasifika has signed up to use the stadium from next year until 2028.
Moana Pasifika's Tuifa'asisina Sir Bryan Williams said while the organisation is committed to basing itself in New Zealand for the foreseeable future, they alsop want to be playing in the Pacific Islands.
Tuifa’asisina Sir Bryan Williams Photo: Photosport
"As the competition evolves and subject to international borders being open, our intention is to play games in Samoa and Tonga and expand our presence across our Moana," he said.
"To grow the game in the Pacific, we need to inspire our young players from an early age. They'll see their heroes run out on the field in Moana Pasifika colours and believe that they can be just like them when they grow up.
Sir Bryan believed being based at Mt Smart was appropriate .
"It's not lost on us that Mt Smart/Rarotonga has been the home of the Warriors since 1995 when they too began their journey as a start-up franchise."
"We know that our community of supporters know this venue well, and we know they will bring intense passion, colour and energy when they come out in numbers to support their team."
Mt Smart Stadium has been confirmed at the home ground for Moana Pasifika. Photo: Photosport