In 2008, Hohaia took over the fullback role from the injured Wade McKinnon. In August 2008, Hohaia was named in the New Zealand training squad for the 2008 Rugby League World Cup. Hohaia was promising in McKinnon's absence leaving a dispute whether he should be played at fullback for the 2008 preliminary final. In October 2008, he was named in the final 24-man Kiwi squad. He played at fullback in every one of New Zealand's matches, including their victory in the final.