A New Zealand Sevens rep in 2012, Iopu Iopu-Aso got his 15-a-side break when he moved to Taranaki from Auckland in 2014.

A talented loose forward who could play a number of positions, Iopu-Aso made 23 appearances for Taranaki, including appearing in the 2014 ITM Cup final against Tasman before he was injured.

Nevertheless, his form throughout that season saw him offered a Hurricanes contract.

Unfortunately for Iopu-Aso, he injured his shoulder, needed surgery and never appeared. He eventually decided to leave Taranaki and take up a contract in Japan.