Secret plan to set up Pacific Islands Super Rugby team by NZGovt

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Newshub reveals secret plans to create a combined Pacific Islands rugby team, with the New Zealand Government funding an $80,000 feasibility study.

The team would be made up of players from Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, and would play in the Super Rugby competition.

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Newshub has learned both New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the Government have worked on the proposal, meaning a united 'Pacific Force' is now close to reality.

The feasibility study was carried out by Jeremy Curragh, a respected rugby commercial operative, and cost the taxpayer $80,000.

Under the plan, the team would be based in Suva, as Fiji is the biggest country. It would also play some 'home' games in Samoa, Tonga, Auckland and Sydney.

The team would be set up as an independent franchise and enter the competition in 2021 - in two seasons' time.

It's got backing from the very top of NZR; chairman Brent Impey and new board member Sir Michael Jones.

Continue to the full release May 14, 2018