The Warriors' semi-final against Newcastle sold out Auckland's 46,000-seat Eden Park within 36 hours, extending their remarkable home support.
Since returning to New Zealand after the COVID-19 lockdowns, 43 of their 48 home matches have reached full capacity.
That momentum has strengthened expectations of a second New Zealand team as the NRL considers expanding to 20 clubs.
Newcastle's New Zealand-born players admire the Warriors' resurgence, although their loyalties will be firmly divided on Sunday.
"It's just a credit to the Warriors boys, the culture that they've brought into their team. It's just reflecting off their fans," Francis Manuleleua said.
Greg Marzhew expects family members and friends supporting the Warriors to provide extra motivation.
"I've got plenty of friends who are Warriors' supporters too. I see stories on my socials about their wins," Marzhew told AAP.
Wellington-born Phoenix Crossland expects a hostile reception, despite his family's affection for him.
"I reckon they want me to score three tries and hope the Warriors win," Crossland said.
Manuleleua's selection is striking because the former Warriors pathway player dislocated his elbow in Auckland three weeks ago.
Newcastle were beaten 46-32 there after leading 12-0, with Jacob Saifiti sent off early. The Knights were also missing Crossland, Dom Young and Tyson Frizell.
"I want to do it right, play 80 minutes and put out a good performance for the boys and for my family and bring back the win," Manuleleua said.