The Highlanders have confirmed the signing of young first-five Mika Muliaina on a three-year contract starting in 2027, securing one of the region’s most highly regarded emerging talents.
A proud Southlander, Muliaina has progressed through the Highlanders High Performance Programme and is currently on a national development contract.
Under the agreement, he will train with the Highlanders squad during the 2026 season before stepping into the Super Rugby environment the following year.
The 18-year-old enjoyed a breakout 2025 campaign, which began with his performances for the Highlanders Under 20 side at the National Tournament in Taupō.
Muliaina comes from a strong rugby lineage.
His uncle, Mills Muliaina, is a former Chiefs and All Blacks fullback who played 100 Tests for the All Blacks, while both his father and uncle also represented Southland at the provincial level.
