Moana Pasifika playmaker William Havili is set to etch his name into the club’s history books this weekend, becoming the first player to reach 50 matches when the team meets the Fijian Drua in Lautoka on Saturday. For a young franchise still shaping its identity, Havili’s achievement is a landmark moment — a blend of loyalty, endurance, and Pacific pride.
One of only four players who have been with Moana Pasifika since its inaugural 2022 season, Havili says the milestone feels bigger than just a personal accolade.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to not only play one game but 50 games for Moana,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to it and hoping we can put a good performance out there for our fans and get the win.”
A Special Pacific Clash to Open the Season
Head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga says Havili’s milestone could not come at a better time — in a Pacific‑to‑Pacific showdown that sets the tone for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.
“Anytime we play against the Fijian Drua, it’s special,” Umaga said. “What an awesome opportunity it is to celebrate the start of the competition with two teams representing the Pacific Islands and playing in the Islands.”
Umaga described the Drua as “a dangerous team” known for thriving off their vocal and passionate home crowd in Lautoka.
“For us, it’s about focusing on our strengths and what we can control. We want to bring the energy from the start and make it a great occasion for our fans — and for Willi, who we’re excited to see achieve his 50th match milestone.”
Havili Ready for the Challenge
Havili says the team expects a physical, high‑tempo encounter.
“It’s awesome playing against our Pacific brothers. They’re an expansive team and they like to throw the ball around. It will be a good match‑up, and especially over there in Fiji — it’ll be hot, but the boys are ready for it.”
He added that Moana Pasifika’s pre‑season preparation has built confidence within the squad.
“We’ve been building through preseason and had a hit‑out against the Highlanders. There’s lots of work‑ons, but a lot of positives as well. Hopefully we can put it all together on Saturday.”
Born and raised in Motueka, Havili was a standout at Nelson College, where he captained the First XV to a Moascar Cup victory. Since debuting for Moana Pasifika in 2022 against the Crusaders, he has steadily evolved as both a playmaker and a leader. Now 27, he has become one of the club’s most reliable performers, guiding a pathway for the next generation of Moana backs.
New Captain and Returning Power
Saturday’s match will also see Miracle Faiilagi captain Moana Pasifika for the first time, supported by dominant loose forwards Semisi Paea and Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa.
Fans will get their first glimpse of powerhouse midfielder Ngani Laumape in Moana colours, pairing with Lalomilo Lalomilo in what promises to be one of the most imposing midfields of the round.
Wellington loose forward Dominic Ropeti is set to make his debut from the bench, alongside utility back Glen Vaihu, who has impressed coaches throughout preseason. Rising winger Denzel Samoa, who earned his place through a three‑week trial camp in December, also joins the matchday 23.
Unavailable Through Injury
- Augustine Pulu (calf)
- Jimmy Tupou (elbow)
- Niko Jones (foot)
- Ola Tauelangi (back)
- Tupou Afungia (neck)
- Paula Latu (knee)
- Tevita Latu (knee)
