Flying Fijians are shining brighter than ever

New Zealand's love affair with Fijian wings shows no sign of abating, with NPC contracts expected to be offered to a raft of players featuring at the Wellington Sevens.

For the last five years now, radio talkback callers have vented their wrath at the preference of NPC and Super 12 sides to field wingers from Fiji.

The likes of Rupeni Caucaunibuca, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Joe Rokocoko, Marika Vunibaka, Sireli Bobo and Sosene Anesi have become household names in recent seasons - the big stars of New Zealand rugby.

The coaches argue there is a dearth of home-grown wingers. The talkback callers say the local talent just isn't getting the chance while the policy of importing Fijians is being pursued.

The debate looks set to run. Having seen the impact made by players such as Rupeni, Vunibaka and Sivivatu, NPC coaches are hungry to get their hands on the next big thing.

Fiji coach Wayne Pivac, who led Auckland to three NPC titles, is happy for his players to come to New Zealand for the NPC. He's even helping place them with NPC sides.

The sevens were an ideal showcase for coaches to run their eye over the talent. Neumi Nanuku, Asaeli Boko and Marika Vakacegu all looked as if they could add some sparkle to the NPC.

Most New Zealand teams are happy, though, to sign Fijians on word of mouth these days.

Northland did just that when they signed Isoa Neivua, a wing described as 'the next Rupeni', at the end of last year.

Pivac says Neivua is raw but gifted. Like Rupeni he is blessed with scorching pace and thighs that can drive him through the most aggressive opponent.

Such a glowing recommendation was enough for Northland chief executive Tim Hamilton.

"The key thing for us was that we needed some pace in our back division. It's a professional market and we have to be realistic about who we can attract. If we think a player can add value, is affordable and available, then we will try to bring them here.

"You have to remember that we are judged on what happens on the field. If we think it is right for us to bring a winger over from Fiji then that is what we will do. We are conscious, however, of the need to get the right balance in the team."

Announcements on other Fijian signings are expected.