Kyren Taumoefolau Poised for Move Amid Rising Interest from Chiefs
Moana Pasifika’s rising star Kyren Taumoefolau is reportedly on the verge of a move, according to multiple outlets in New Zealand.
Two months ago, Moana head coach and former All Blacks skipper Tana Umaga acknowledged the 22-year-old winger was attracting significant interest and admitted retaining him could be a challenge in today’s competitive rugby landscape.
Umaga noted that Taumoefolau’s standout performances had opened doors and that the Tongan international now faced a decision about where his journey would lead next. This followed an appearance on Crowd Goes Wild, where Taumoefolau expressed openness to representing the All Blacks if given the opportunity.
On Tuesday, RugbyPass columnist Gregor Paul broke the news in the New Zealand Herald, later telling Newstalk ZB that he was “pretty certain” the Chiefs had secured the speedster’s services.
“This is a move a young man is making for a range of reasons,” Paul told host D’Arcy Waldergrave. “He’s from Tasman, raised in New Zealand, and always dreamed of becoming an All Black. Playing for Tonga at the 2023 World Cup was unexpected, but he took the chance.”
Paul added that under current eligibility rules, Taumoefolau’s All Blacks ambitions remain alive. “The three-year stand-down period means representing Tonga hasn’t shut that door—it could even boost his case for 2027.”
At just 22, Taumoefolau now looks set to head south to Hamilton, where the Chiefs are preparing for life without Shaun Stevenson, who is Japan-bound. The Chiefs, known for their depth in the back three, could use Taumoefolau as a fullback given his early experience at first five-eighth during school.
In a recent episode of the Hurtlocker Podcast, the Nelson native reflected on a pivotal moment in his development—missing out on the Crusaders U18 squad after the team brought in Auckland players instead. That snub motivated him, leading to stints with Tonga Sevens, Tonga, and ultimately Moana Pasifika.
Though he’s primarily played on the wing, his playmaking past adds versatility, which may appeal to the Chiefs as they rebuild their backline. The franchise already boasts talents like Leroy Carter, Etene Nanai-Seturo, and Emoni Narawa, who debuted for the All Blacks in 2023.
Fittingly, Taumoefolau will start on the right wing this weekend as Moana Pasifika travel to face the Chiefs—possibly his future team—in Hamilton.
