THE New Zealand connection at Ellis Park strengthened on Thursday when it was announced that former Otago tighthead prop Nick Moore will pack down for the Gauteng Lions pack this year. The 28-year-old player, who has 80 games for Otago and two seasons with the Super 12 Highlanders behind him, will joining his compatriot, former All Blacks coach Laurie Mains who is coach of the Lions. Moore will pack down with Owen Nkumane, South Africa’s first black Springbok, who opted out of playing in the Super 12 this week in favour of play for Main’s provincial side after lacklustre performances in last year’s tour of the British Isles.