There might be a Rugby World Cup about to kick-off but on the other side of the globe Tonga is building the foundations for the next generation of 'Ikale Tahi players.
Tonga's national Under 14, Under 15 and Under 16 teams are in New Zealand for the next couple of weeks, playing a series of games against club, school and representative teams.
Tonga Under 15s during their rugby tour of New Zealand. Photo: RNZI / Vinnie Wylie
The Under 14s and Under 16s had opening victories in Auckland on Monday while the Under 15s were beaten 19-5 last night by the Wellington Under 16 development team.
Tonga Under 15s and the Wellington Under 16 development team shake hands post-match. Photo: RNZI / Vinnie Wylie
Head coach Vaita Ueleni says the tour is a big learning curve for his players.
"We are trying our best to bring the skills of our boys [up] and be competitive in that level and that's what we are building up for. This is a good experience for our boys here, having
this many games in New Zealand. Playing against the best will always be a good experience for our players".
The Tonga Under 15s play again tomorrow against Aotea College in Wellington before four more matches in Auckland.