Moana Pasifika will disband at the end of the current Super Rugby season, the Auckland-based franchise has announced.
In a statement, it said it was no longer viable to participate in the competition.
"This is one of the hardest decisions we have ever made. We are immensely proud of our players, staff, and the community who have supported our team over the years," chair Dr Kiki Maoate said.
“Across our rugby, pathways and community programmes, we have been able to support a growing hub of Pacific talent across multiple sporting codes, both locally and in the Pacific region. This is something we are extremely proud of and will continue to support and advocate for as best we can.
“Our commitment now is to ensure a smooth transition for everyone affected and to celebrate our legacy by finishing the season strong."
The team has played Super Rugby for five seasons, with the aim of promoting Pacific talent.
Maoate said it would be "devastating news" to process.
"We continue to look ahead and navigate these next steps together, just as our people always have."
Coach Tana Umaga was recently confirmed as one of Dave Rennie's assistants at the All Blacks. He recently lashed out at the Blues, accusing them of intentionally making it difficult for them to survive and “thrive”.
All Black Ardie Savea helped propel the side to the brink of the playoffs last season, but ownership woes and a nomadic experience didn't help them off the pitch.
They were effectively forced out of Mount Smart Stadium after their establishment in 2020 and have since found a home venue and training base at North Harbour Stadium. They won four of their five games there last year, including a thrilling victory over the Blues that prompted wild celebrations among players and fans alike.
However, they are limited to five games per season at the venue and a recent attempt to play a home game in Tonga fell through due to a lack of sponsorship.
They have won just one match this season.
In a statement, New Zealand Rugby said: "New Zealand Rugby (NZR) acknowledges the Moana Pasifika Board’s decision that it is no longer viable for the club to continue beyond the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.
"Our immediate thoughts are with the players and their families, management and fans.
"Moana Pasifika has confirmed to NZR that it will continue to compete through to the conclusion of the current season. We know that they will give everything on the field to continue to inspire their communities.
"NZR remains supportive of Moana Pasifika’s vision to create pathways from the Pacific and is saddened by the challenges the club faces.
"We are aware there may be parties exploring financially viable and sustainable plans for the future of the team. NZR is open to engaging with those parties to discuss the club’s continued participation in Super Rugby Pacific."
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