Currently the General Manager at Matson South Pacific, a regional shipping company, La’auli is passionate about economic and social development for Pacific people both in the Pacific and here in Aotearoa New Zealand. Much of La'auli's time and energy is spent in Pacific youth and community empowerment programs, particularly in his role as Chairman of the Village Community Trust. He is also the Chairperson of the Moana Pasifika Rugby Franchise.

In 1990 he was awarded the New Zealand Commemoration Medal for services to the Pacific community. In 1997 he was invested as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to rugby. In 2003 he was inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame recognising his considerable commitment and achievements in rugby as an All Black and as a coach and player for Samoa.

In 2017 he was invested as Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for being a driver of economic and social development for Pacific people in New Zealand, and in the Pacific region.