Seven good, 15 better for Otago's new recruit

Anthony Tuitavake is determined to shrug off his reputation as a sevens specialist when he makes his Super 12 rugby debut next year.

The North Harbour recruit is probably the leading contender to start at centre for the Highlanders when the season begins in February.

Tuitavake, 22, will follow the path of a handful of players who have used the international sevens circuit - and the brutal training of New Zealand coach Gordon Tietjens - to launch a Super 12 career.

"Sevens for me has been about getting out there with the football and having a bit of fun," Tuitavake said yesterday.

"And with Titch really drilling you, it's a great way to keep fit over the summer.

"But getting into fifteens has always been my aim. I want to get into it and excel."

Tuitavake said that had it not been for sevens - he won world titles with the national side last year and this year - he may not have had the chance to play in a place like Dubai or at a stadium like Twickenham.

But after sitting on the bench for the Blues in one game this season, he knew he wanted to be a part of the Super 12.

Behind the likes of Sam Tuitupou and Ben Atiga at the Blues, he jumped at the opportunity to be drafted by the Highlanders.

Three weeks into his new career, he is "really loving it down here".

"It's awesome at the moment. Otago seems like a really good environment and they're a good bunch of guys."

He is flatting with fellow draft players Colin Bourke and Mahonri Schwalger.

Other Highlanders teammates are well known to Tuitavake. He was in the New Zealand under-21 team two years ago with Jimmy Cowan, Cameron McIntyre, Jason Shoemark and Chris King.

It seems likely Tuitavake will follow Nick Evans and Craig Newby and eventually transfer from North Harbour to Otago.

He investigated that possibility this season but has one more year to run on his North Harbour contract. 

Tuitavake was raised in Auckland, where he attended Massey High School before transferring to Kelston for his final year.

- NZPA