Josh Whaanga

Josh Whaanga (born 15 March 2004) is a New Zealand rugby union player, who plays for the Highlanders and Otago. His preferred position is centre or wing.^[1]

Josh Whaanga

Date of birth	(2004-03-15) 15 March 2004 (age 21)
Place of birth	Balclutha, New Zealand
Height	193 cm (6 ft 4 in)
Weight	98 kg (216 lb; 15 st 6 lb)
School	John McGlashan College
Notable relative(s)	Matt Whaanga (brother)
Rugby union career
Position(s) Centre / Wing Current team Highlanders, Otago Senior career Years Team Apps (Points) 2023– Otago 19 (25) 2025– Highlanders () Correct as of 10 December 2024 International career Years Team Apps (Points) 2024 New Zealand U20 2 (0) Correct as of 10 December 2024

Early career

Whaanga is from Balclutha and attended John McGlashan College.^[2][3] He represented New Zealand U20 in 2024.^[4] He is the brother of fellow rugby union player Matt Whaanga.^[5]

Professional career

Whaanga has represented Otago in the National Provincial Championship since 2023, being named in their full squad for the 2024 Bunnings NPC.^[6] He was named in the Highlanders squad for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season in November 2024.^[7]