He represented New Zealand at both codes, and later also played for Croatia in two rugby union World Cup qualifying matches.
In the early part of his rugby union career he was a rival to Grant Fox for the All Blacks number 10 jersey.
During the 1992-93 season, Botica played at Five-eighth for Wigan in the 1992 World Club Challenge against the 1992 Winfield Cup premiers, the Brisbane Broncos.
He made his test début at Fullback against France at Carlaw Park in Auckland on 13 June 1991, kicking eight goals as the Kiwis thrashed the visitors 60–6.
His selection had seen him flown in from England for the series after a dispute between the New Zealand Rugby League and Manly-Warringah over compensation saw in-form test incumbent Matthew Ridge become unavailable.
Despite eventually becoming a five-eighth in rugby league, Botica spent much of his early time in the 13-aside code, including five of his seven tests for New Zealand, at fullback or on the wing.
When rugby union became openly professional, Botica returned to the 15-a-side code to play for Llanelli in Wales and then in France.
[9] Botica's son Ben is a former member of North Harbour's ITM Cup squad, has represented New Zealand Schoolboys,[10] and currently plays for Aviva Premiership side Harlequin F.C.
[11] Another of Botica's sons, Jacob, played for Welsh regional sides Dragons and Scarlets in the United Rugby Championship.