Moana Pasifika is now on the hunt for a new head coach after incumbent Aaron Mauger submitted his resignation letter and will officially finish at the end of the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

In a statement issued on Monday, Moana Pasifika stated that the Board has accepted Mauger's decision and respects his desire to prioritise his family. 

“I love this team immensely and it has been an absolute privilege to be a part of this special journey for Moana Pasifika and broader movement for the Pasifika community," Mauger said. "I have given everything for the cause in testing conditions but it’s now time for me to return home to my family and give my best back to Amy and my four beautiful children.

"There are some great people within the club, and I hope these gems can be retained to bring continuity to the further development of the club.”

Mauger, while acknowledging the individuals within the club, concluded by thanking the loyal Moana community for their unwavering support and positive encouragement.

"Your spirit and support have been hugely uplifting for the team in challenging conditions. Keep the faith and ride the waves with the team, they acknowledge and play for you every week," he added.

Moana Pasifika's Chair, La'auli Savae Sir Michael Jones expressed his gratitude for Mauger's contribution and dedication to the team during his reign as the head coach on behalf of the Board.

"We accept Aaron's resignation and understand his decision to prioritise his family. We thank him for his dedicated work as Head Coach," La'auli said. "Both in establishing the rugby management team from its inception and developing a roster of largely inexperienced players, with half the team having never played in a Super Rugby match prior to joining Moana Pasifika.

"This accomplishment is especially notable considering the disruptions posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent storm weeks last year, and a tough 2023 season. Aaron's unwavering professionalism throughout his time with Moana Pasifika in steering our waka has been commendable."

La'auli further acknowledged Mauger's role in nurturing and developing the team, saying, "Under Aaron's leadership, we have witnessed the growth and progress of our Pasifika players.

"His commitment to fostering their skills at a professional level has had a significant impact and helped to unearth real talent. Last year, 27 Moana Pasifika players went on to represent their Pacific home nation, 13 in the ‘Ikale Tahi and 14 in Manu Samoa squads, for the Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) in 2022."

Pointing out the board’s determination to continue fostering talent and providing opportunities for aspiring Pasifika players, La'auli said the board remains committed to its mission to provide professional pathways for Pasifika people and continuing to nurture and develop players.

"We are truly grateful for Aaron's passion, hard work, and professionalism during his tenure with Moana Pasifika, We wish him all the best in his future endeavours, and we are confident that the strong foundation he has helped build will continue to move us forward." 

The two-year-old Super Rugby Pacific franchise will now begin the process of searching for a new head coach to lead Moana Pasifika.