Fakatava, Taele sign Super Rugby extensions
- Dave Worsley
- Apr 30
- 2 min read
Updated: May 2
More contract extenstions in Super Rugby Pacific for both the Highlanders and Blues as they struggle to make the playoffs.
Halfback Folau Fakatava has extended his contract with the club through the 2026 and 2027 Super Rugby Pacific seasons.
Fakatava, 25, made his debut for the Highlanders in 2019 as a 19-year-old Since then, he has established himself as a standout performer with his explosive speed, creativity, and ability to ignite attacking opportunities.
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His form earned him a call-up to the All Blacks in 2022, making his international debut against Ireland. While his time in the national side was brief, he has continued to be a consistent game-changer at Super Rugby level, regularly starting or coming off the bench.
Fakatava is excited about contributing to the next phase of the Highlanders' journey.
“I am looking forward to this young team developing in the future. We have an exciting, hard-working group here and are well led by Jamie Joseph. I believe we can achieve some great things if we stay focussed on improving,” said Fakatava.
Highlanders Head Coach Jamie Joseph is thrilled to have Fakatava locked in for the coming seasons.
“He is an X-factor player for sure and sparks a lot within our attack structure. He’s just getting better and better with experience and, at only 25 years of age, has a lot more to offer the Highlanders and New Zealand rugby,” Joseph said
Meanwhile Blues midfielder Xavi Taele has signed on for another season with the franchise, committing to the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
The 20-year-old emerged through the Blues development pathway and Saint Kentigern College, Taele has steadily climbed the ranks, representing the club at U17, U18, and captaining the Blues U20 side.
He also represented the New Zealand U20s in 2023 and 2024 and has a good opportunity to seal a place in the Blues midfield with Reiko Ioane on sabattical next year.
