Soane Mikaele Vikena joins the Highlanders after three seasons at the Blues.

The powerful 23-year-old hooker out of Mount Albert Grammar School is a former New Zealand U20 representative and brings valuable experience to the Highlanders’ front row. He made his Super Rugby debut for the Blues in 2021 and has already shown his potential at the top level as a strong ball carrier and dependable set-piece operator.

In 2025, Vikena made an immediate impact in his first season with the Highlanders, featuring regularly and impressing with his physicality and work rate around the field. Heading into 2026, he’ll be looking to build on that foundation and push for a more prominent role in the Highlanders pack.

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