Anthony Tuitavake

Anthony Tuitavake (born 12 February 1982 in Auckland) is a New Zealand rugby union footballer. He plays as a centre or on the wing. Tuitavake, of Tongan descent, is a fast attacking centre, who not only finishes backline moves himself, but also has the vision to create space and scoring opportunities for his outsides.

He had a great season in 2005 for both the Highlanders and North Harbour, before being signed by the Blues in 2006, with whom he remained until 2009.

He played for the world champion New Zealand Under 19 side in 2001 and for the New Zealand Under 21 team in 2002. Tuitavake is also a former New Zealand Sevens representative, winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2002 in Manchester and then a world title the following year. Tuitavake was named in the 2008 All Blacks squad; making him All Black number 1072. He made his All Black debut, starting in the 14 jersey, on 7 June against Ireland.

In 2009, Tuitavake signed a two-year deal with Japanese club NEC Green Rockets, with whom he debuted in the 2010-11 season. In 2013, Tuitavake signed up with top French club Montpellier for the 2013–14 season.

Honours