All Blacks hopefuls sign contract extensions with the Highlanders
Highlanders utility back Timoci Tavatavanawai and second-row Fabian Holland.
The Highlanders have announced that highly rated duo Timoci Tavatavanawai and Fabian Holland have agreed terms on new contracts with the Dunedin-based outfit.
Although the Highlanders have found the going tough in Super Rugby Pacific this year, utility back Tavatavanawai, who can play at centre or on the wing, and second-row Holland have been two of their star performers.
The Highlanders are currently languishing at the bottom of the standings but despite that the duo’s excellent form has led to calls for them to be called up to the All Blacks squad for their mid-year Test series against France in New Zealand.
Highlanders co-captain Tavatavanawai has led the way with several outstanding performances in this year’s Super Rugby Pacific competition with his explosive speed, relentless physicality and try-scoring prowess.
Tavatavanawai has put pen to paper on a new two-year deal and Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph is delighted that they have retained the 27-year-old’s services.
‘Unique blend of power and agility’
“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,” he told the Highlanders’ official website.
“We’re thrilled to have him locked in for the next two seasons.”
Tavatavanawai said he is proud to extend his time with the Highlanders.
“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,” he said.
“I’m excited about the direction we’re heading and honoured to continue representing the Highlanders.”
Tavatavanawai, who was born in Fiji, first made his mark at Super Rugby level with Moana Pasifika, who he represented in 2022 and 2023, before joining the Highlanders last year.
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His consistent performances and strong leadership qualities were rewarded at the Highlanders’ awards ceremony on Monday evening. He won the player of the year, back of the year, players’ player of the year, most valuable player and Highlander Man awards.
Meanwhile, Dutch-born Holland has re-signed with the club for an additional three years, extending his stay until the end of the 2028 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
Made his Highlanders debut as a 19-year-old
He arrived in New Zealand from the Netherlands at the age of 16 and has made big strides since then as he represented the New Zealand U20 side and made his debut for the Highlanders as a 19-year-old in 2022.
Since then, he has established himself as a regular in the Highlanders’ run-on side playing 13 games in 2024 and every match in 2025.
The 22-year-old’s consistent performances has been rewarded as he represented the All Blacks XV in 2024 and played a match for the Barbarians against Fiji alongside legendary All Blacks lock Sam Whitelock.
Holland was named as the 2025 forward and defender of the year at the Highlanders’ annual awards evening.
Joseph is excited by Holland’s development at the Highlanders.
“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 focused on fulfilling his rugby aspirations,” he revealed.
“We are delighted that he has committed to the team for the future.”
Holland is thrilled to further his career with the men from Dunedin.
“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.”