The Highlanders have signed Tasman duo Alex Ainley and Marty Banks and Taranaki wing Waisake Naholo.
Ainley has had a strong season at lock with the Makos after returning to ITM Cup rugby last year following three seasons with the Mitsubishi Dynabours in Japan.
Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph said they were looking for players "who could contribute to the environment as well as on the field. All these guys have great character and will add value to the team. Ainley's experience and uncompromising play will be a great asset up front and Naholo and Banks will help round out our backline stocks."
Ainley and Banks will join Makos teammates Shane Christie, Joe Wheeler and Ross Geldenhuys.
Banks comes in as a first-five who has racked up 145 points in this year's ITM Cup. Naholo has been released from his contract with the Blues to head south to the Highlanders.
