In pictures: Thousands gather to celebrate Toa Samoa ahead of Rugby League World Cup finals

Thousands of Toa Samoa fans have gathered in Māngere and Ōtara for celebrations, as excitement builds ahead of the Rugby League World Cup final against Australia early tomorrow morning.

The predominately Samoan neighbourhoods have been celebrating since Toa Samoa's stunning semi-final win over England last weekend.

It has prompted traffic warnings from police as significant congestion builds.

Police said congestion was already building around Westgate Shopping Centre and Parrs Park in West Auckland, as well as, Ōtāhuhu town centre, Māngere town centre, and Ōtara town centre in South Auckland.

Police were recommending people avoid the areas unless it was necessary they go there.

Meanwhile, well-known actor Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson has posted a video message in support of Toa Samoa.

The American actor, whose mother is Samoan, commended fans for the support shown and expressed his pride in Fa'a Samoa or the Samoan way.

He also had a few words of advice for the players, who enter the final against Australia as the underdogs.

"It's the grit, the drive, that force, that you operate as if your backs are up against the wall and there's nowhere to go but ahead, but forward.

"It's grit I think about and the other one is legacy. When it comes to legacy, you guys are defining your legacy right here."