Lolagi Visinia is a powerful and dynamic rugby union player known for his versatility across the back three, particularly at fullback and wing. Born on 17 January 1993 in Auckland, New Zealand, and of Samoan heritage, Visinia emerged as a standout talent during his time at Kelston Boys’ High School, where he represented the prestigious New Zealand Schools team. His explosive speed, athleticism, and ability under the high ball soon caught national attention, leading to his inclusion in the New Zealand Sevens squad for the 2012 IRB World Sevens Series, where he made an immediate impact in the Hong Kong and Japan legs. The following year, he played a pivotal role for the New Zealand U20 side at the 2013 IRB Junior World Championship, scoring four tries in as many matches.
Visinia began his professional provincial career with Auckland in the 2012 ITM Cup, debuting straight out of school. He quickly became a regular starter, helping Auckland to the Premiership final in his debut year. His strong domestic performances earned him a Super Rugby contract with the Blues in 2013. Over the course of four seasons with the Blues (2013–2016), he made 33 appearances and showcased his ability to beat defenders and finish tries at the highest level. In late 2016, Visinia made the move overseas to France, signing with FC Grenoble. During his time in the Top 14 and Pro D2, he continued to evolve his game, playing over 40 matches and accumulating more than 80 points in two seasons.
In 2020, Visinia briefly played in Japan for the NEC Green Rockets in the Top League before returning to New Zealand to join the Hawke’s Bay Magpies in the NPC. His return was nothing short of impactful; he became a key figure for the Magpies, bringing experience, attacking spark, and strong leadership to the backline. In 2021, he was picked up by the Hurricanes for the Super Rugby Aotearoa season, where he made several appearances and reignited his Super Rugby credentials. In 2022, Visinia signed with Moana Pasifika for their inaugural Super Rugby Pacific campaign, bringing both flair and experience to the new franchise and representing the Pasifika identity with pride.
In a major career development, Visinia switched his international allegiance to Samoa under World Rugby’s eligibility changes. He debuted for Manu Samoa in July 2022 during the Pacific Nations Cup, starting against Australia A and contributing to a 31–26 victory. His experience across multiple levels of international rugby—including New Zealand Sevens, NZ U20s, and now Samoa—highlights his rare breadth of experience and adaptability at the top level.
With a career spanning over a decade across New Zealand, France, Japan, and the Pacific, Lolagi Visinia remains a high-impact back renowned for his physicality, tactical kicking, and ability to create and finish tries. His leadership, professionalism, and multicultural rugby journey continue to make him a respected figure within the global rugby community.
