Fijian Drua Face Travel Woes in Auckland, Exposing Unequal Treatment in Super Rugby

Fijian rugby star Nemani Nadolo has voiced his frustration over the travel and accommodation struggles faced by the Fijian Drua during their recent trip to Auckland, highlighting what he sees as unfair treatment compared to other Super Rugby teams.

In a social media post, Nadolo detailed the difficulties the team encountered upon arrival in New Zealand, including a missing team bus and being denied a late checkout at their hotel.

“What frustrates me the most is that after a long flight, the team arrives at the airport only to find that their bus is nowhere to be seen,” Nadolo wrote. “Instead of waiting another three hours for it to arrive, the boys jump in the back of a truck to get to the hotel.”

The situation worsened on game day, with the Drua unable to secure a late checkout, forcing players to either wander around or sleep in the hotel lobby for hours before kickoff. Meanwhile, their opponents, the Hurricanes, were allowed to remain in their rooms until game time.

Nadolo believes these disruptions played a role in the Drua’s defeat, arguing that their loss “actually happened the minute they landed in Auckland.”

His comments have sparked debate over whether Pacific teams are being treated unfairly compared to their Australian and New Zealand counterparts.

“Every time a Super Rugby franchise visits Fiji, they’re treated like royalty, with police escorts and top-tier hospitality,” Nadolo pointed out. “Can you imagine an Australian or New Zealand team ever being put through something like this?”

The Fijian Drua, who have brought new energy and excitement to Super Rugby since joining the competition in 2022, have often faced logistical challenges when playing abroad.

While Pacific teams offer world-class hospitality when hosting matches, some fans and players are questioning whether they receive the same level of respect when traveling.