Casey McLean scored four tries on his New Zealand debut in 2024, and says representing the Kiwis has helped him understand his heritage.
The 20-year-old Panthers centre said playing for New Zealand gives him a way to honour his family and their sacrifices before moving to Australia.
"So it's obviously more for myself to give back to them and represent them."
McLean grew up in Australia and said playing for the Kiwis helps reconnect him with his culture.
"I grew up and was raised in Australia, so I'm very lucky enough that this kind of does help me bring me back to my culture.
"I get to go back home a couple of times, get to learn about not just myself, but where my family have come from."
He is also looking forward to this year's World Cup, which he considers rugby league's highest honour.
"I still believe it is the pinnacle of rugby league. World Cup, such a big stage, you get to put on the jersey that we come from."
McLean said James Fisher-Harris has returned to Penrith, where a small group of players have begun informal training.
"Fish has come back over, he's living back in Penrith now, so there's a handful of us still ticking boxes, training a little bit, probably trying to stay fit."