Matolu Petaia

Matolu Petaia is a New Zealand rugby union player, who plays for the and. His preferred position is lock, flanker or number 8.

Early career

Petaia was born in Porirua and attended Hastings [Boys' High School] where he played rugby for the first XV. Having left school, he joined up with the Hurricanes academy, representing their U18 side in 2022, and U20 side in 2024. He plays his club rugby for Tawa RFC in Wellington, who he captains, winning U19 player of the year in 2023.

Professional career

Petaia has represented in the National Provincial Championship since 2024, being named in the squad for the 2025 [Bunnings NPC]. He was named in the wider training group for the 2026 [Super Rugby Pacific season].