Moana Pasifika Make History in Derby Upset Over the Blues at North Harbour

Captain Ardie Savea - Moana Pasifika

In front of a sold-out crowd at North Harbour Stadium, Moana Pasifika delivered the most significant result in their short history, defeating the Blues 27–21 in a match that encapsulated their rapid rise and defiant spirit.

This was more than just a win—it was a statement. Against a side that has long loomed as their Auckland big brother, Moana Pasifika not only held their nerve but outplayed the Blues in key moments to notch their first-ever victory over them. It was an emotionally charged night, marked by tears, chants, and unbridled joy from players and fans alike.

Savea the GOAT

Leading from the front, Ardie Savea put in a performance for the ages. His relentless energy, leadership, and breakdown dominance were crucial, and it was only fitting that he would be the man to seal the victory. In the 81st minute, with the Blues pressing on the Moana line and the result hanging in the balance, Savea latched onto the ball at the ruck to win the turnover penalty. It was a moment of sheer willpower, the kind that defines champions. The stadium erupted as Christian Pellegrini kicked the ball into touch—full-time.

Kyren Taumoefolau’s Hat-Trick Heroics

If Savea was the soul of this win, Kyren Taumoefolau was its fire. The 22-year-old winger lit up North Harbour with a stunning hat-trick, showcasing pace, flair, and fearless ambition. His third, a chip-and-chase finish, was worthy of any highlight reel and put Moana firmly in command.

He now stands as one of the league’s breakout stars, a symbol of the young talent thriving in the Moana setup.

Blues Falter Under Pressure

For the Blues, this was a night of frustration and reflection. A team still mathematically in playoff contention, they looked like a shadow of their former selves. Injuries have not been kind, but their execution—particularly from senior players—left much to be desired. Beauden Barrett, usually a pillar of calm and precision, was uncharacteristically poor, with misfired kicks and poor option-taking undermining his side’s progress.

When Hoskins Sotutu crossed the line in the second half, there was a flicker of hope. But as had been the theme all night, Moana’s hunger simply eclipsed the Blues’ intentions.

Now 5–8, the Blues face a must-win clash against the Waratahs after next week’s bye. But after such an uninspired showing, questions will inevitably be asked: does this team deserve a playoff spot?

Moana Pasifika: Contenders at Last

This was no fluke. Moana Pasifika have now beaten the Crusaders in Christchurch, the Highlanders in Dunedin, and the Hurricanes—but this victory over the Blues feels different. A home derby win, witnessed by thousands of Pacific fans waving flags and dancing in the aisles, was a powerful cultural and sporting moment.

Moana now move to 6–6 and into the top six with 28 points, with only away games against the Chiefs and Hurricanes left in the regular season. Few would bet against them now. With their belief, cohesion, and rising stars, they’ve become one of the stories of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.

And on this night, they didn’t just win a match. They earned respect, made history, and lit the torch for Pacific pride in professional rugby.

Full-Time: Moana Pasifika 27 – 21 BluesVenue: North Harbour StadiumAttendance: 12,000 (Sell-out)