The Super Rugby Pacific round 9 match between Chiefs and Moana Pasifika will now be played in Rotorua. The Pacific Island side had planned to play the match at Teufaiva Sport Stadium in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, on April 11 but the plans were abandoned because of a lack of funding and sponsorship. The match will now be played at Rotorua International Stadium on April 11, the teams and Rotorua NZ announced today. The Chiefs last played a regular-season Super Rugby match in Rotorua in 2018, where they were defeated 23–19 by Argentine team, the Jaguares. Moana Pasifika chief, Debbie Sorensen, said the team was looking forward to engaging with local rugby fans. “While we are sad we can’t take this game to Tonga, we do know that our fans and our community are everywhere – including in the Bay of Plenty region. “I know Rotorua will also welcome the visit by the Chiefs, so it’s a win-win for both teams.” Chiefs chief executive, Simon Graafhuis, said it was exciting to have another game in the region after the Chiefs played a preseason game against the Fijian Drua in Mount Maunganui in January. “We love our fans and having the chance to play in Rotorua is a real bonus for us. “We know we have strong support in the city and we are confident those fans will turn out in force for this match.” Moana Pasifika players with Rotorua connections included prop Malakai Hala-Ngatai, who has ties to Te Arawa, while Semisi Paea was raised in the city and attended Rotorua Boys’ High School. He played junior rugby for Ngongotahā Rugby Club and has played for the Bay of Plenty Steamers since 2021. Gallagher Chiefs halfback and fellow Rotorua Boys’ High School old boy Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi said he was delighted the Chiefs were returning to his hometown. “Rotorua is a rugby town, and I know the locals will be keen to see the boys up close. “It’s superb news that the Chiefs will be playing there.” Rotorua was previously reported to be one of two options considered for the match, with Pukekohe initially considered the most likely. Kick off on April 11 is at 2pm.