Former All Blacks, Aaron Mauger, has been announced as Head Coach of the new Super Rugby team, Moana Pasifika, today, 30 September.

The 40-year-old, who is of Samoan, Tahitian, and Cook Islands heritage, is excited to work with the Auckland-based team, set up to provide a professional pathway for players from Pacific island countries such as Tonga.

“This is an opportunity to be part of something very special, and my goal is to give players the platform they have been crying out for, to play our style of rugby, and to demonstrate that their heritage can be celebrated openly, and that their skills and talent is sought after,” said Mauger.

“We have been working hard already on building our team, and I am excited about the prospect of announcing our coaching team and first Super Rugby squad, very soon.”

Mauger has played 45 Tests for New Zealand, and has coached the Otago Highlanders in Super Rugby and Leicester Tigers in the English Premiership.

Moana Pasifika Trust chair Savae Sir Michael Jones welcomed Mauger’s appointment.

“Aaron has had an outstanding playing career and coached at Super Rugby level. He knows the grit and guts it takes to succeed, which is just what we need to hit the ground running come competition time.”

“We know all eyes will be on us and how we perform as a team. We are in good hands and we’re excited for the journey ahead.”

Moana Pasifika will make its Super Rugby debut next year and has signed agreements to use Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland as its 'home' from 2022-2028.