Two players from the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, Joseva Tamani and Manasa Mataele, will face off this weekend in an exciting matchup as Otago takes on Canterbury in the final of the Bunnings NPC championship. This clash is set to be particularly intense, given that both athletes will be on opposing teams: Tamani will contribute from the bench as a lock for Otago, while Mataele will start on the right wing for Canterbury.
Tamani reflected positively on Otago’s journey to the final, saying, “At the start of the season, I didn’t know how the team would go, but every week we’ve grown together. Being in the final means our hard work has paid off, but the job is not done yet.” He expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support from their local fans and his anticipation of reuniting with Mataele in the Drua for the upcoming season.
Both Otago and Canterbury demonstrated their formidable capabilities in the semifinals, with Otago achieving a decisive 41–17 win over Bay of Plenty and Canterbury triumphing with a 43–19 victory against Hawke’s Bay. For Mataele, who is slated to join the Drua in the 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season, this game carries special meaning. He shared his excitement about playing at home and acknowledged the unique challenge of facing his teammate Tamani.
Canterbury boasts a notable history in the NPC, having claimed the championship title nine times since the competition’s rebranding in 2006, while Otago is looking to secure its first title in this modern era of the tournament. Glen Jackson, head coach of Fijian Drua, expressed pride in having both players participate in such a significant rugby rivalry. He hopes they enjoy the experience and come away from the match without injuries, emphasizing the importance of this game in their careers.
This championship final transcends mere competition; it represents a celebration of the players’ growth, resilience, and commitment to their sport. As fans gear up for what promises to be a thrilling display of rugby talent, both teams are eager to leave their mark on this momentous occasion in New Zealand rugby history. The match is scheduled to commence at 3:05 PM this Saturday at Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch.