Highlanders re-sign pair of giant All Blacks hopefuls

Both Timoci Tavatavanawai and Fabian Holland have extended their time with the Highlanders, with the former signing on until 2027 and the latter committing through to 2028.

The news comes in the final week of the Super Rugby Pacific round-robin as the Highlanders lick their wounds at the bottom of the competition table.

Head coach Jamie Joseph and the Dunedin faithful can now head into the offseason knowing two of their top talents are locked in for the long haul, with this promising, young team building towards a bright future.

The Highlanders may have won just three games in 13 attempts this year, but in what has been the most competitive Super Rugby season in recent memory, the club has frequently been in the fight with title favourites.

That has been largely due to the likes of Tavatavanawai and Holland, who each have built serious cases for higher honours in 2025, and will now press their claim for an international call-up for at least another two seasons in New Zealand.

The Fijian midfielder was crowned the club’s best at a recent season awards event, picking up five major awards: Back of the Year, Fan Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year, Pulse Energy Most Valuable Player, and the Highlander Man Award.

“Timoci brings a unique blend of power and agility that lifts the entire squad. Beyond his athletic ability, he’s a leader who sets high standards and drives our culture forward. We’re thrilled to have him locked in for the next two seasons,” Joseph said of the winger-turned-inside centre.

Tavatavanawai was named co-captain ahead of the 2025 season as Joseph looked to make him a central figure both on and off the field.

“It’s a privilege to be part of this club and community. The support from the fans and the environment we’ve built here make Dunedin feel like home. I’m excited about the direction we’re heading and honoured to continue representing the Highlanders,” the former Moana Pasifika bruiser said.

While Tavatavanawai is miles ahead in the season’s defenders beaten and breakdown steal stats, the 204cm Holland is just shy of leading the pack in total tackles.

“Fabian has come a long way in a short amount of time. He’s hungry for knowledge, has lots of energy, wants to help and is focused on fulfilling his rugby aspirations. We are delighted that he has committed to the team for the future,” Joseph said of the star lock.

Holland was crowned Man of the Match in his All Blacks XV debut in 2024, a win over Munster in Ireland, before getting his first call-up to the wider All Blacks squad as injury cover.

“This was not a hard decision for me really, being a Highlander means everything to me—a little Dutch kid’s dream that has become a reality. I love this club and the people of the region and can’t wait to get stuck into another season with this team,” he said.