Moana Pasifika coach Tana Umaga says he is “honoured” to have his name linked to a potential assistant coaching role with the All Blacks, but insists the speculation remains just that for now.
The former All Blacks captain has emerged as one of several figures reportedly under consideration to workunder new head coach Dave Rennie, who was appointed this month after the departure of Scott Robertson.
Umaga, who played under Rennie at Wellington in the early 2000s, said while he hasn’t spoken with him, there was interest from his agent about having a discussion to “see if anything comes up”.
“You wouldn’t turn that down, would you,” Umaga said. “So we’re just waiting for those things to happen and, look, if it happens, it happens.
Taranaki coach Neil Barnes, who is contracted for the 2026 NPC season, Andrew Strawbridge, who worked with Rennie at the Chiefs and former Scotland halfback Mike Blair, who has worked with Rennie at the Glasgow Warriors and now Kobe, have emerged as the other contenders to join the All Blacks coach ranks, with an official announcement expected in the coming days.
Umaga’s contract is up at the end of the season with Moana, where he has been at the helm since 2024. He also has a close relationship with Ardie Savea, who played at the Super Rugby Pacific franchise last year.
The 52-year-old has coached roles with Toulon, Counties Manukau, New Zealand’s under-20s, the Blues, Samoa and now Moana Pasifika.
Dave Rennie was appointed All Blacks coach to replace Scott Robertson. Photo / Dean Purcell
Rennie said last week when appointed that rebuilding the All Blacks, culture is vital, and somebody of Umaga’s experience and calibre would be key, as he’s regarded as a New Zealand great, having played 74 tests during his career, while serving as captain for two seasons.
Rennie is also the first All Blacks coach of Pasifika heritage.
Umaga said he has been inundated with calls and messages since talk of a possible role surfaced but is trying not to read too much into it.
“I suppose it was my turn this week. I saw there were a lot of names involved in who Rens [Rennie] is looking for,” Umaga said.
“My family are the ones that are letting me know what’s happening and I’m getting a lot of these texts, so I had to turn my phone off. I’m honoured to be involved in that conversation and if anything happens, I’m sure people that are involved in those areas will let you know.”
Umaga insisted he was happy and passionate about what is happening at Moana Pasifika, and was happy to see Rennie get the role.
“I have faith in what he’s doing and I’m just getting in behind him as an All Black fan,” Umaga said.
“I’ve played for the jersey and it means a lot to me and that hasn’t changed wherever I go. It still means a lot to me and I’m just glad that now we can get in behind someone and support them.”
Moana Pasifika face the Blues at Eden Park on Sunday, where they will look to snap a three-game losing streak. Former All Blacks prop Atu Moli will make his debut for the side.
Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.
