Ioane was one of eight new caps picked in the Samoan team for a three-match tour of Europe next month.
The aggressive blindside flanker or No 8 was born in Motootua, in Samoa, and moved to Wellington with his family when he was young.
He represented the New Zealand schools team in 2007 while at Wellington College and moved to Otago in 2011 when his career path was blocked by a large group of quality loose forwards in Wellington.
Ioane has played well in the South, although in his second season with the Highlanders this year, he was hampered by injury and did not get many starts.
He has played most of the season for Otago but started most games off the bench. He has been hindered with an injury to his right hand this season and there were fears it was broken.
Ioane (25) has not been re-signed for the Highlanders next year and is also off contract for Otago, so his playing future is up in the air.
He could be eyeing up a move overseas although, free of injury, he would be good asset for a Super rugby side.
The Samoans play Italy on November 8, Canada on November 14 and England on November 22.
The side also includes former Highlanders Anthony Perenise and Johnny Leota, who are playing in England.
