TAVATAVANAWAI AND HOLLAND DOMINATE 2025 HIGHLANDERS AWARDS NIGHT AND CONFIRM FUTURES

The Highlanders' 2025 Annual Awards Evening, proudly presented by John Jones Steel, lit up the University of Otago Business School this evening as the club celebrated another season of commitment, talent, and community connection.

Star player and co-Captain, Timoci Tavatavanawai stole the show, collecting an impressive five awards, including the coveted Pulse Energy Most Valuable Player title and confirming his future with the Highlanders by announcing a 2-year contract extension.

Tavatavanawai’s all-round brilliance was on full display throughout the 2025 season. A consistent threat on attack and a relentless presence on defence, he was a driving force behind many of the Highlanders' key moments this year. His remarkable efforts earned him:

• Back of the Year
• Fan Player of the Year
• Speight’s Player’s Player
• Pulse Energy MVP
• And the highly respected Highlander Man Award, given to the individual who best embodies the values of the club on and off the field.

Joining Tavatavanawai in the winner’s circle and confirming in his future, is towering lock Fabian Holland who was recognised as both the Forward of the Year and Defender of the Year. These acknowledgements highlight his dominance in the engine room and his growing status as a key figure in the Highlanders' pack which is set to continue with the confirmation of his contract extension of 3-years also.

Exciting young loose forward Veveni Lasaqa was named Rookie of the Year after making a strong impact in his debut Super Rugby Pacific season, showcasing speed and ball carrying ability

In the development space, Dylan Pledger took out the University of Otago U20s Most Valuable Player, following an outstanding campaign at the Super Rugby U20s tournament in Taupō and his selection in the New Zealand Under 20s team.

Off the field, the awards celebrated players’ contributions to the wider community and their personal growth:

• Jake Te Hiwi was named Kiwi Mobile Community Champ for his outstanding community engagement, contributing to the team's impressive total of over 1,200 hours. 
• James Arscott received  the Player Personal Development Award, recognising his commitment to personal growth beyond rugby.
• The Southern Inspiration Award, which honours someone who embodies the club’s purpose of “Southern Inspiration,” was awarded to Jacob Ratumaitavuku- Kneepkens, whose courageous return to the field following a serious neck injury has been nothing short of inspirational. His resilience, determination and relentless positivity made him a fitting and worthy recipient of this special honour.

Over 200 guests, including commercial partners, Highlanders members, partners, and staff, were in attendance for a night that highlighted not only elite individual performance but also the character and culture that define the Highlanders.

2025 Highlanders Awards – Full List of Winners: