OPINION: NZ Rugby says 40% of pro players are of Pacific heritage, making survival vital.

The New Zealand government on Monday stepped in at the eleventh hour to try to save Super Rugby's Moana Pasifika from extinction.

The Super Rugby franchise was placed into liquidation last week, and played what could be their final game on Saturday.

Around 70 players and staff are among the creditors listed in the report.

The first report into Moana Pasifika's collapse estimates creditor claims of $8.2 million and reveals players and staff are among those owed money.

OPINION: NZ Rugby says 40% of pro players are of Pacific heritage, making survival vital.