Moana Pasifika has announced the signing of exciting first-five Jackson Garden-Bachop for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Garden-Bachop was born in Dunedin and raised in Wellington. He is of Māori, Samoan, French Polynesian and Cook Island descent.
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The 29-year-old hails from the Ngāti Awa Iwi. His nana was born in Moerai Village in Rurutu, French Polynesia. He also has ties to Turangi, Titikaveka and Ngatangiia in Rarotonga. As well as the village of Lalomanu in Samoa.
He has starred for Wellington, playing 91 matches since 2013, helping end the union's 22-year NPC title drought against Canterbury in 2022. Coming off a season with CA Brive in France, he also previously played for the Hurricanes (31 matches) and Melbourne Rebels (13) in Super Rugby.
Garden-Bachop's signing continued a busy time for Moana Pasifika since securing the services of All Blacks captain Ardie Savea in July.
The South Auckland franchise has extended Manu Samoa wing Neria Fomai and Tongan hooker Samiuela Moli, while signing Tongan first-five Patrick Pelligrini and Manu Samoa duo Melani Matavao and Tuna Tuitama.
He said the signing is an opportunity to find out more about his cultural identity.
“I’m really excited to be a part of such an exciting movement that’s been growing for the last few years both on and off the field,” said Garden-Bachop.
“It’ll be very special to connect with my Pacific heritage. I’ve always been proud to be a Pacific Islander but it’s never been a part of my heritage that I’ve ever been immersed in. So I’m looking forward to learning more about myself and my people.”
The Māori All Black comes from a talented sporting family.
This includes father Stephen who played for the All Blacks and Manu Samoa, while his late mother Sue represented the Black Ferns. Garden-Bachop is also the older brother of the late Highlanders back Connor Garden-Bachop.
“Jackson is a talented player who brings valuable experience, leadership and playmaking skills, boosting Moana Pasifika’s backline," said Moana Pasifika head coach Tana Umaga.
“We’re grateful to secure his services for next season and look forward to welcoming him to the team.”
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