The 27-year-old will start at fullback, with David Halaifonua moved to the right wing, Nafi Tuitivake shifted to centre and captain Siale Piutau selected at second five, in place of Viliami Tahitu'a.
Super Rugby duo Siegfried Fisi'ihoi and Siua Halanukonuka also get a start in a beefed up front row, replacing Ben Tameifuna and Latu Talakai, for the opening match of the Pacific Nations Cup, which doubles as a Rugby World Cup qualifier.
Former Blues flanker Jack Ram has been named on the bench, after missing the 24-6 defeat by Wales two weeks ago through injury.
