Epeli or ‘Waqa’ as he is more commonly known, was born and raised in Fiji and came to NZ on a student exchange programme where he attend Wanganui College. Waqa packed a real punch at 1st XV level and quickly caught the eye of the Hurricanes where he was named in their U18 squad and impressed with every touch of the ball. From there Waqa went on to represent the Hurricanes U20 side and train with the main hurricanes squad as a 19 year old. Waqa represented Fiji at the U20 RWC in 2023 where he was one of the stars of this tournament. His ability to beat players and create something out of nothing caught the eye of the Fijian Drua and he was subsequently picked in the Fijian Drua Super Rugby side for the 2024 season, making his debut vs the Western Force. 2024 turned into a massive year for Waqa at both Super Rugby level and the International level making his debut for the Fijian national side. Known for his uncanny strength and ability to break the line, crunch defenders, and score and create tries from nothing, Waqa is your typical Fijian mid fielder. He has started at 12/13/wing at the highest level and is a genuine option in all 3 positions. At still only 21 years old, Waqa has so much potential that is yet to be filled and he will be a match winning addition for any side prepared to nurture and look after this young man. 

*Released from the Drua Super Rugby in December 2024 side due to repeated non-attendance at pre season training.