A Pasifika leader is calling on rugby league fans to look out for each other during Saturday night's clash between Mate Ma'a Tonga and the Kiwis.
Scenes of violence between fans from Tonga and Samoa were prevalent at the Rugby League World Cup in 2017 in south Auckland. Dozens were arrested on the night Tonga beat New Zealand, the culmination of weeks of scuffles - usually between Tonga and Samoan fans.
Manukau Ward Councillor Alf Filipaina says fans should enjoy the spectacle.
"Go to a place where you can watch the game instead of on the street, and be safe - it is about the game."
Police warned locals to stay away from the Otahuhu town centre in October 2017, things got so bad.
- League fans party, brawl in south Auckland
- Ugly scenes in Auckland as Tongan and Samoan league fans clash
- More street battles between Tongan and Samoan league fans
Filipaina says only a minority are causing the issues.
"Our community should say we do not put up with a very small group of people spoiling it for everybody. I'm hoping that the people who went out just to cause problems now realise that it is about the love of rugby league."
Kickoff is at 5:30pm.
Police said they will have an increased presence on the streets just in case. Filipaina hopes they have a quiet night.
"My advice is to enjoy the occasion. It's about your culture, but more importantly, it's about the game."
Newshub.
