Ardie Savea has agreed a monumental move to Moana Pasifika, ahead of the 2025 Super Rugby season. The All Blacks back row is at the top of his game, after being named the World Rugby Player of the Year following the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Savea returns home to Super Rugby after spending a season in the Japan Rugby League One, where he ran out for Kobelco Kobe Steelers. The move to Japan was Savea’s first experience of club rugby outside of New Zealand, as he had spent the previous 11 years of his career in Wellington with his beloved Hurricanes.
Ardie gets set to join his brother Julian Savea at Moana Pasifika, with the number eight agreeing a deal that will run through to 2027. Savea expressed his gratitude to his former Super Rugby club and his excitement for the new journey ahead.
“I’ve got massive respect for my Hurricanes family and I loved serving them for 11 years,” Savea said. “But I think it’s the right time for a change and I spent a lot of quiet time with my family thinking about things before making this decision.
“To have this team show the love and support they have for me and my family is special. Knowing that, regardless of anything that might happen, they will look after me and my family – I think that means a lot.”
Hailing from the Samoan Villages of Siumu, Luatuanu’u, and Falesiu Uta, Savea is very proud of his heritage and sees the signing as an opportunity to pay homage to his roots.
“It will be huge to give back to my heritage and my culture in such a meaningful way. My brother Julian has told me that this team was made for us so I can’t wait to get started.”
Moana Pasifika Head Coach, former All Black Tana Umaga, is excited to see Savea bring his experience and influence to the team.
“Ardie has had a remarkable rugby career so far, excelling both in New Zealand and on the international stage. His signing with us speaks to his commitment to his Pacific heritage and a dedication to nurturing the next generation of Pacific players.
“He brings invaluable skills both on and off the field and as a leader and role model, he is highly respected by his peers and adored by fans.
“As a seasoned and esteemed player, we look forward to the positive impact he will have on the team’s dynamic and success and are very excited to welcome him aboard the Moana Pasifika vaka.”