Highlanders bolster 2027 squad with two international recruits

The Highlanders and Jamie Joseph have added two internationals to their 2027 Super Rugby Pacific squad, with Samoan outside back Tuna Tuitama and Fijian lock Joseva Tamani joining the Dunedin-based franchise.

Tuitama moves south from Moana Pasifika, where he made nine appearances for the Super Rugby franchise, and thirteen for Samoa since making his debut in 2024.

The outside back previously starred for the Fijian HSBC SVNS Series team, scoring 30 tries in 56 appearances.

Joseph said he has no doubt Tuitama’s skillset will add significant value to the Highlanders squad in 2027.

“Tuna is a player with genuine x-factor. He’s hungry, he’s ambitious, and he fits perfectly with the style of rugby we want to play. We see him developing quickly in our environment and becoming a key contributor over the next two seasons.”

Tuitama thanked his family, who have helped lead him into a new and exciting journey in the deep south.

“First and foremost, I give all thanks and glory to our Heavenly Father; none of this would be possible without Him. From leaving the Islands to joining Moana Pasifika and now taking the next step with the Highlanders, my family have been by my side.

“I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to join the Highlanders. I’m excited to get stuck in and earn my place. I’m looking forward to working hard and doing my part to help the team succeed.”

Tamani, who played 13 times for Otago in the 2025 Bunnings NPC competition, will bolster the Highlanders locking stocks, while also providing cover in the loose-forward positions.

The versatile lock has played 40 Super Rugby Pacific matches for the Fijian Drua and earned two Test caps for Fiji in recent years.

“I really enjoyed my time with Otago last year, and I have grown to love the place. Getting the opportunity to play at the next level with my teammates is exciting. It’s an awesome feeling to have the chance to play for the Highlanders.”

Joseph, heading into his third season as the Highlanders head coach, said Tamani’s NPC form made him hard to ignore.

“We liked what we saw from Joseva last year when he played for Otago. He was strong in contact and broke defences with his strength of carry and athleticism. Above all, he was a consistent performer throughout the NPC season,” Tamani told the Highlanders.

“He is experienced at Super Rugby level, and his versatility will be important in a tough tournament like Super Rugby Pacific. He’s a very good addition for us.”