20 November 2025

A proud Tongan with values drawn from rugby and his family, Fulton Hogan Supervisor Fetuuloa (Loa) Havili (centre) has been recognised at the CCNZ Auckland Awards. Loa was highly commended in the Apprentice of the Year category.

Loa played four seasons with the Tasman Makos in the ITM Cup before a knee injury in 2017 led him to change direction, joining Fulton Hogan.

“When you play rugby professionally everything needs to be professional – leading by example and helping guide the young fellas as they come through. I am continuing this with my team at Fulton Hogan,” he says.

Loa has steadily progressed to leading hand, foreman and now supervisor. He completes his drainlaying apprenticeship in 2026.

Loa is passionate about learning, tenacious in overcoming challenges and with an unwavering commitment to quality workmanship. He hopes his experience inspires others.

“Culture is important to me, and most of my work is setting the right team culture so that we can learn and achieve together.”

In late November, Loa returns to Tonga – where he lived from ages five to 15 – with the Auckland Tonga Team for a six-team tournament.

Still at his professional playing weight of 115kg and in his favourite position of number eight, he says he’s raring to go.

“With the sort of work we do I need to stay in shape, so being physically fit is important on and off the field.”

Loa, ball in hand, is shown playing for his village Ha’apai in the Tongan competition in Auckland last year.