Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens joined the Highlanders in 2024 as an outside back and created some electric moments on the field during his 15 appearances for the Highlanders (that's every game) in 2024. 

Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens came out of Francis Douglas Memorial College in New Plymouth and was selected into the NZ Secondary Schools team in 2018 and 2019. As a 19-year-old, he commenced his professional career in 2020 playing for Taranaki in the NPC competition. He was then selected for the Blues Super Rugby team in 2021 before making the move South in 2024. 

During the 2024 NPC season Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens fractured a vertebrae in his neck, requiring emergency surgery, and began a lengthy rehabilitation process. In 2025, after months of recovery, he returned to the field and became a regular at fullback, showcasing the pace and flair that had made him such an exciting addition to the Highlanders. His strong form was recognised with a selection in the All Blacks XV at the end of the 2025.

Heading into 2026, he will be eager to build on his momentum and cement his reputation as a dangerous attacking threat in the Highlanders’ backline.

Favourite rugby memory?

Winning the NPC with Taranaki in 2023 

Favourite singer?

Sabrina Carpenter

What inspires you?

My mum and the possibility of getting better every day