Tonga's proud culture was on full display at Auckland International Airport early this morning after junior and senior players alike performed brilliant Sipi Tau to each other during Mate Ma'a Tonga's welcoming to New Zealand.
Approximately 2000 voices came together to welcome their boys and make them feel like they were at home. (Source: Other)
The senior team was welcomed by approximately 2000 cheering fans after their dominant 50-4 win over Scotland in Cairns on Sunday with their final two World Cup pool matches against Samoa and the Kiwis taking place in New Zealand over the next two weeks.
The NRL superstar had his tears wiped away by his aunty as he embraced her. (Source: Other)
But their biggest welcome came from a junior team who stepped forward to perform the Sipi Tau for their heroes.
The NRL superstar had his tears wiped away by his aunty as he embraced her. (Source: Other)
Immediately after their challenge, their idols gave them the honour of delivering one right back.
Sunday's game was Tonga's only pool match in Australia, with their next two taking place in Hamilton at Waikato Stadium against Samoa next Saturday and the Kiwis the following weekend.
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