NRL star Jason Taumalolo was overwhelmed at this morning's welcoming for Mate Ma'a Tonga after he was met by family he hadn't managed to see in years with hugs, kisses and adoration.
Tonga's culture was on full display as junior and senior players showed each other the ultimate respect. (Source: Other)
Taumalolo, along with the rest of the Tongan World Cup team, arrived at Auckland International Airport early this morning having played their first match of the tournament in Cairns on Sunday.
Approximately 2000 voices came together to welcome their boys and make them feel like they were at home. (Source: Other)
The team was welcomed by approximately 2000 people after touching down in New Zealand, but there was only one small group of people Taumalolo wanted to see.
"These are tears of joy, seeing all my family here," he told 1 NEWS.
"That's my dad's sister - It's good to see her. I haven't seen her for a while and it's good to see her and all the family come out and support.
Taumalolo told 1 NEWS the love he and his team had received since coming together for the World Cup was irreplaceable.
"It's a great experience to see the turnout we had tonight and it shows how much it means to our people.
"I don't think [this ever gets old] - I'm enjoying it, the boys are enjoying.
"As long as family is involved I'm more than happy to be a part of it."
Taumalolo caused headlines last month after he declared days before the Kiwis' World Cup squad announcement he was going to play for Tonga at this year's tournament.
Tonga's culture was on full display as junior and senior players showed each other the ultimate respect. (Source: Other)
Approximately 2000 voices came together to welcome their boys and make them feel like they were at home. (Source: Other)
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