Ex-British & Irish Lions flyhalf Stephen Jones joins Moana Pasifika

Stephen Jones, the former fly-half with 104 caps for Wales has been recruited for two seasons as assistant coach of the Moana Pasifika franchise under the leadership of head coach Tana Umaga.

The man who previously coached Wasps and Scarlets at club level and was Wales attack coach from 2019 to 2022, said he and his family enjoyed moving to Auckland in last October.

As far as he is concerned, it is "an amazing opportunity" to coach in Super Rugby with Moana Pasifika and a "no brainer".

A decision which dates back to May 2023

His decision dates back to May last year, when he came to Auckland to work on his personal development with the Blues. There he met Tana Umaga, who was then the team's assistant coach and, beyond that, a former opponent on the field.

Since then, Tana Umaga, who spent time with Toulon between 2006 and 2011 as both a player and coach, has been appointed head coach of Moana Pasifika.

Jones, 46, never thought such an opportunity could present itself, but he was delighted to later receive a phone call from Umaga offering him a position on his staff.

Stephen Jones assistant coach of Wales looks on prior to during the Rugby World Cup 2019 Quarter Final match between Wales and France at Oita Stadium on October 20, 2019 in Oita, Japan. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

"The people I'm working with are incredible. The playing group, we've been working them very, very hard, they've been open-minded, willing to learn and willing to grow. The experience has been top drawer." Jones told AllBlacks.com.

“I like the cultural aspect [of Moana Pasifika]. I love their attitude toward faith and family, and the pride they have in their culture. It's something very special.

A strong link with Pacific philosophy

Having spent 95 per cent of his international career under New Zealand coaches Sir Graham Henry, Sir Steve Hansen and Warren Gatland, Stephen Jones is well versed in New Zealand's style and playing philosophy, which applies to the Super Rugby.

"But it's been awesome to watch the boys' catch-pass skills and ability to play with width and tempo," said Jones. "It hasn't surprised me, but it is awesome to see the vision and speed with which they can transfer the ball along with the great athletic ability we have here."

His goal with the team is all about learning, improving, experimenting with different styles and philosophies, working with different cultures, and he loved every minute of it.

Nili Latu in charge of the forwards

He is joined in this challenge by another renowned international, Nili Latu , who won 54 caps with Tonga and has solid experience in Super Rugby with the Chiefs and the Hurricanes, as well as 110 matches for the NEC Rockets in Japan and 48 matches with Newcastle Falcons.

This trio of coaches provides serious support to the newcomers to the competition, who are going into their third season. The new forwards coach knows New Zealand rugby better than Jones, but is grateful to have had the opportunity to coach the team.

“I am Moana myself, being Tongan, but I represent everyone else with the ocean that connects all the islands. This is where our connection lies. For me, it is an opportunity to work with my people,” he assures.

The Moana Pasifika concept is making a real impact as the team enters its third year. Previously, players were sent to other New Zealand franchises or overseas.