Fiji born Auckland Blues utility player - Isa Nacewa was last night named Air New Zealand Cup Player of the Year at the New Zealand Rugby Union Awards ceremony in Auckland.

Nacewa was an instrumental figure in Auckland's win in this year's Air New Zealand Cup competition and also helped them win the Ranfurly Shield.

Meanwhile his team-mate, Daniel Braid scooped two awards last night, winning the Player of the Year award and also took out the Maori Player of the Year award.

New Zealand 7's team captain DJ Forbes who guided New Zealand to win the IRB World 7’s Series title last season was named 7’s Player of the Year and Highlanders Jimmy Cowan took out the Super 14 Player of the Year award.