New Zealand-born Irish rugby star Bundee Aki took a trip down memory lane, popping into his old high school for a surprise visit after facing the All Blacks.
Manurewa High School shared photos of his visit to social media, calling it "pretty special".
Aki, who plays at centre for both Ireland and his club Connacht, was born in South Auckland and raised in Manurewa. He is eligible for Ireland through residency, having played in the country for more than a decade.
In its post, the school said: "Some reunions are just good for the soul."
During his visit, Aki caught up with some of the teachers who "shaped his journey".
"There were plenty of laughs, stories, and a few 'remember when…' moments," the school said.
"Safe to say they were pretty proud to see how this young man has turned out."
Some of the school's current rugby players also spotted him, grabbing some photos.
"Standing alongside our giants, they even managed to make Bundee look a little small… now that’s saying something," the school said.
Aki was in Auckland for Ireland's Nations Championship test against the All Blacks at Eden Park on Saturday, losing 40-21 to the home side.
The school said his personality was what stood out the most during the visit – not his international rugby career. "Still humble. Still grounded. Still proudly Samoan. Still proudly South Auckland. Still proudly repping Manurewa."
It was also "heartening" to hear Aki speak about his life in Ireland, and how the country had embraced him and his family, the school said.
"His story is a beautiful reminder that we don’t have to leave our identity behind to belong somewhere new.
"We can honour where we’ve come from while embracing new people, places and opportunities."
The school said Bundy showed what happened when "talent is matched with humility, hard work, and strong values".
"And yes… we’ll forgive him for wearing green these days… just this once."
In a message to the community, the school said: "No matter where life takes our rangatahi, they’ll always have a home here."
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