Walker-Leawere, who was named Māori All Blacks squad, is the son of 2007 Fiji Rugby World Cup lock and current Baby Flying Fijians coach Kele Leawere.
The Gisborne youngster is a former New Zealand Under 20 rep and Hurricanes player.
He said he is proud to represent the NZ Māori and looks forward to playing against his Fijian brothers in Suva on Saturday.
"[It's] pretty surreal. Just feels different from just coming in and out of training to be named in the squad. Pretty much nervous for the season coming but will see what happens."
