No.8 Metuisela 28, who played seven games for the Western Force last year, travelled to Dunedin as the Waratahs' 23rd man.
He was elevated into the starting side after Palu withdrew with a lower leg problem today.
Palu experienced some tightness earlier in the week that was exacerbated by travel disruptions yesterday, when flight cancellations resulted in an 11-hour journey.
A former Force and Brumbies Academy player, Metuisela, a Manly clubmate of Palu's, has also played rugby league for the Roosters, Storm and Tigers.
He will be thrown into what is anticipated to be an intensely physical clash.
Playing under a roof, the Waratahs won't have to worry about wind or rain, but they risk being blown away if they don't win the breakdown battle.
Much of the pre-match focus has centred on the unbeaten Highlanders physicality and their renowned ability to win turnover ball.
Recalled back Berrick Barnes, who will line up at inside centre, made it clear NSW couldn't hope to win unless they controlled the breakdown.
"They (the Highlanders) have been one of the best teams in the comp, probably the form team at the breakdown, and that's what's been the cornerstone of their success," Barnes said.
"So if we don't front up there, we stand no chance."
NSW coach Michael Foley agreed the Highlanders' physicality was a key factor.
"If you don't match them in that area, then anything else you plan to do won't work," Foley said.
With three playmakers in Barnes, skipper and five-eighth Daniel Halangahu and fullback Bernard Foley, NSW won't lack creativity once they win possession.
For the Highlanders, All Blacks five-eighth Colin Slade will make his first start of the season coming in at fullback for Ben Smith, while Kade Poki steps in for Buxton Popoali'i on the right wing.
While the Highlanders pack have demanded attention and respect for their robust play, Barnes said they had more threats in their backline than in previous years.
