Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou was born and raised in Palmerston North and is one of five children. He had an active childhood with he and his siblings always involved in sport. He is of Tongan and Samoan heritage. His faith in God plays a huge role in his life and is the foundation of everything he does. “I have the opportunity to provide more for my family and have a platform to give glory back to Jesus.”

Sae-Ta’ufo’ou was part of the Palmerston North Boys High School First XV and was later named in the Hurricanes Under 20s side.

The proud Samoan and Tongan had to overcome adversity early in his provincial career to recover from injuries, coming back stronger.

Sae-Ta’ufo’ou joined Moana Pasifika as a development player at the end of 2024, coming through the Manawatū Academy and making his debut for the Turbos in 2023. He had been spotted by the Moana Pasifika coaching team while playing NPC.

His incredible strength, scrummaging prowess and commitment to his craft, earned him his Super Rugby Pacific debut against the Western Force in Round One. Since then he became a mainstay in the starting lineup.

Sae-Ta’ufo’ou scored an impressive hat-trick in Moana Pasifika’s win over the Waratahs in Round Eight, with Super Rugby Pacific fans recognising him as the Player of the Week. With his career just getting started, Sae-Ta’ufo’ou has showcased the fortitude and professionalism to take him far.

Moana Pasifika debut: 2025 v Western Force