When Dane Gagai received his first New Zealand jersey, his mother, Tania, presented it to him in front of family.
Gagai said the moment was emotional, recalling how his mother had driven him to training and football carnivals throughout his career.
Born in Australia, the 35-year-old switched allegiance to New Zealand in 2026, after winning the 2017 Rugby League World Cup with Australia.
He said Adam Blair called two days after the 2026 World Cup win, asking whether he would represent New Zealand.
Gagai said he had always wanted to play for the Kiwis, inspired by cousin Josh Hoffman, and was grateful to represent his mother's family, whose roots are in Auckland.
He hopes to win the World Cup and celebrate with his mother, as he did with his Australian father, Ray, after the 2017 title.
"The dream for me is to be able to win a World Cup."
Before the final against the Kangaroos, Gagai warned that Australia could turn a match quickly and urged New Zealand to limit their opportunities.