Samisoni Taukei’aho, a former New Zealand Schools representative, began his provincial career with Waikato in 2017. Born in Tonga, he was first noticed while captaining Tonga’s Under-15 team before moving to St Paul’s Collegiate in Hamilton in 2014.

He made his Super Rugby debut for the Chiefs against the Highlanders in 2017 and has since established himself as a powerful and dynamic hooker, known for his scrummaging, ball-carrying, and work rate around the park.

Taukei’aho earned his first All Blacks call-up in 2021 for the Steinlager Series against Fiji. Following an injury to Dane Coles, he made his Test debut off the bench in Hamilton, marking the occasion with two tries. His physicality, skill, and versatility have quickly made him a key figure in the national side’s front row.