Fa'agase comes south after a professional career spanning more than 100 Super Rugby appearances, including stints with the Queensland Reds, Highlanders, Melbourne Rebels and in 2026, the Western Force.
The experienced front-rower also brings a strong connection to the lower South Island, having previously represented the Highlanders and spent time playing provincial rugby in New Zealand.
Stags head coach Scott Eade said Fa'agase's experience and willingness to immerse himself in the Southland rugby environment made him an attractive addition to the squad.
Following the retirement of Morgan Mitchell, the Stags identified a need for experience in the front row, Fa'agase will help fill that void while also providing valuable leadership for younger players.
He will be involved with the Rugby Southland HP/Academy programme, reinforcing his commitment to contributing both on and off the field.
While never capped at test match level, the 35-year-old did play for Australia XV against the Barbarians.
He can also play on the loose head side of the scrum, which is another handy bonus for the makeup of the Stags squad.
Outside back Glen Vaihu has also signed on for the team. He has been a regular starter for Moana Pasifika in 2026 and brings valuable professional experience to the Stags squad.
Originally part of the Melbourne Rebels development system, he made his Super Rugby debut in 2021 before continuing his rugby journey through Australia and Japan.
Eade said Vaihu was known for his strong work ethic and willingness to learn.
"Vaihu has built a reputation as a dangerous attacking player capable of making an impact with ball in hand."
His performances at Super Rugby level have showcased his ability to break tackles, generate metres and create opportunities from broken play, he said.
The team has also added further depth to their halves stocks with the signing of half-back Charlie Marsh.
While new to the Stags environment, Marsh arrives with strong southern connections and valuable NPC experience. Raised in Central Otago, Marsh was a former schoolmate of Stag Michael Manson.
Marsh also played alongside Stags midfielder Fletcher Morgan during his time with Thames Valley.
Most recently, he was a member of Waikato's 2025 NPC squad, making five appearances.
Alongside his work in rural banking in Gore, he has become a regular fixture for the ENC Barbarians in the Go Bus Southland Wide Premier Men's Competition.
Eade said Marsh's commitment to both rugby and the wider community has impressed coaches and team-mates alike, and the Stags are excited to welcome him into the squad for the 2026 season.— Allied Media
