A standout in his debut season for the Highlanders, Tavatavanawai scooped four awards, including most valuable player, at the team’s awards function last night.
The blockbusting winger has been one of the best on the field this season and is the only player to have started in all 13 games.
Tavatavanawai, 26, leads Super Rugby Pacific for jackal turnovers, leading to him being named defensive player of the year.
He also picked up back of the year and fan player of the year at the awards held at the University of Otago Business School.
Flanker Oliver Haig was named best rookie, rising loose forward Max Ratcliffe won the under-20s award, prop Ayden Johnstone was given the player personal development award and young loose forward Hayden Michaels was named community champion.
All Black front rower Ethan de Groot deservedly won the Highlander Man award.
"Ethan is a genuine Highlander Man who not only gives to the club on the field but also off it," Highlanders chief executive Roger Clark said.
"He is integral to our team and is widely respected, and at only 25 years old, he has achieved so much and still has many years ahead of him."
Nasi Manu, former Highlanders captain who now works in operations and player welfare, was given the inaugural southern inspiration award.
