Highlanders sign Fijian forward Joseva Tamani until 2028

Fiji international Joseva Tamani has earned a two-year deal with the Highlanders, with the Super Rugby Pacific club rewarding the powerful forward after his standout performances for Otago in the National Provincial Championship (NPC).

The 29-year-old lock-loose forward has signed through to the end of the 2028 Super Rugby Pacific season after impressing Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph during last year's NPC campaign.

Tamani brings considerable experience, having played 40 Super Rugby matches for the Fijian Drua and earning two Test caps for Fiji.

Well known to Otago supporters after making 13 appearances for the province last season, Tamani is recognised for his powerful ball-carrying, dominance in contact and mobility.

Tamani said he was looking forward to returning to Dunedin.

"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 team mates is exciting. It's an awesome feeling to have the chance to play for the Highlanders."

Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph said Tamani's consistent performances made him an obvious signing.

"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."

"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."

The Highlanders also confirmed the signing of Samoan international Tuna Tuitama on a two-year contract.

Tuitama joins the Dunedin-based franchise after two seasons with Moana Pasifika and 12 Test appearances for Samoa since making his international debut in 2024.

He said joining the Highlanders was a significant milestone.

"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."

Joseph said Tuitama would add genuine attacking spark to the squad.

"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."

Both players will feature in this year's NPC competition—Tamani for Otago and Tuitama for Counties Manukau—before linking up with the Highlanders ahead of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season.