[1] Nawaqanitawase is of mixed Fijian and Italian heritage, and was born and raised in Burwood, New South Wales.

[citation needed] With his similarities in height, position, body type, and playing style, Nawaqanitawase has been likened to former Waratahs fullback and dual Australia and Tonga representative Israel Folau.

[5][6] Nawaqanitawase began his professional career in 2018, signing with the NSW Country Eagles in the National Rugby Championship.

Nawaqanitawase had a breakout 2022 Super Rugby Pacific season, starting in 10 of his 12 matches, scoring seven tries and playing a total of 842' in a year which saw the Waratahs finish 6th on the ladder and reach the Quarter-finals.

[10][11] In 2022, following an incredibly successful year with the Waratahs, Nawaqanitawase was named in the Australia A squad for the Pacific Nations Cup.

In 2022, following a successful campaign with both Australia A and the Waratahs, Nawaqanitawase was named in the Australian squad for the 2022 Autumn internationals series.