Timoci Tavatavanawai is a powerhouse who can play in the midfield or on the wing. Tavatavanawai was born and raised in Fiji and played for the Fiji National Under 20 rugby team, before moving to New Zealand and making his debut for Tasman in the 2021 NPC.  He earned a Super Rugby contract with Moana Pasifika in 2022 before joining the Highlanders in 2024 where he started every game and topped Super Rugby Pacific for turnovers won at the tackle.

Tavatavanawai’s physicality, agility and explosive power see him regularly breaking tackles, forcing turnovers and finding the try line. His on and off-field leadership has been hailed by the Highlanders, who named him co-captain for the 2025 season.