Connacht lure a Tongan-Kiwi to Ireland

The 25-year-old signs from NPC side Waikato, having previously played Super Rugby with the Blues and the Hurricanes.

Playing for the All Blacks Sevens team Ahki won a World Cup Sevens medal in 2013 and helped New Zealand to a silver medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. He is also a graduate of the Junior World Championships having played for Tonga Under-20 in 2011 and New Zealand Under-20 in 2012.

"Pita is a highly-rated young player who has played Super Rugby for the Blues and the Hurricanes," Connacht coach Kieran Keane said.

He is a strong pacey player who will add to our attacking options. I think he will fit in well at Connacht and I am delighted to be welcoming him to the province."

Speaking of his move to the Sportsground, Pita Ahki said: "I am really excited about my move to Connacht. I am looking forward to the prospect of playing European and PRO14 rugby. Connacht has developed a huge reputation as a proud club with community central to everything they do. I can't wait to join up with the squad and meet the Sportsground crowd."