New Highlanders jersey will be auctioned for supporting programmes in Fiji

Following the game between the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and the Highlanders, the designed Highlanders jerseys will be auctioned via Trade Me from May 6th, with proceeds going directly toward supporting programmes in Fiji.

The Director of Supporter Engagement and Fundraising Tim Hamilton says the bond between Fiji, its people, and the Highlanders is woven into every thread of the team’s latest jersey—a tribute to a proud rugby legacy and a deep cultural connection that stretches across the Pacific.

He says for generations, Fijian players have brought not only talent, but identity, spirit, and unity to the Highlanders.

Hamilton says names such as Manasa Bari, Aisea Tuilevu, Iliesa Tanivula, Seru Rabeni, Vilimoni Delasau, Waisake Naholo, and Jona Nareki represent more than excellence on the field—they reflect a powerful connection between people, culture, and club.

He says this connection is honoured through the jersey’s design, featuring Fiji’s traditional national colours of black and white and it symbolises respect, gratitude, and the enduring relationship between the Highlanders and the Fijian community.

As the Fijian saying goes: “Au na gone ni Yavusa! Au sema vei ira na liu mai! Kei ira era na muri mai” — “I am the child of the tribe! I am connected to those who came before me, and to those who will come after me. I am the present.”

Hamilton says this message captures the essence of the jersey—belonging, legacy, and unbroken connection.

He says that same spirit of service and community lies at the heart of The Salvation Army’s work in Fiji.

The Director says its work spans Family Care Centres, Court and Corrections, Chaplaincy, community development initiatives such as food assistance and education support, disaster and emergency relief, alcohol and other drug treatment, and Youth Restoration Services—helping individuals rebuild their lives and strengthen their communities.

He says the Salvation Army’s iconic red shield appears on the team’s playing and training shorts throughout the Super Rugby Pacific season, while match-day collections and campaigns like the Red Shield Appeal raise funds to support its work, with a strong focus on Fiji.

Ahead of the match, Territorial Commander Janine Donaldson will speak with the Highlanders about the significance of the jersey and the impact of The Salvation Army’s mission in Fiji.

In Fiji, that mission continues to grow—strengthened by partnerships, shared values, and the enduring spirit of connection that unites the islands with the Highlanders.