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Regional | League

Māori league star spends quality whānau time on route to NRL 9s

The celebratory spirit has begun to take over the country's biggest city, with preparations for this weekend's Downer NRL Auckland Nines.  All 16 teams are out in the community tonight to build the party atmosphere.  For one Māori league star, his arrival was a bit different than usual.

Adam Blair's arrival to Auckland today was somewhat different.  The Blair family arriving in style from Australia today.

It's been a four-day journey from Australia, but today the Blair family landed on our sacred shores.  Luckily enough, it's been a holiday and process of mental preparation at the same time.

State of Origin fans are in for a treat with the majority of both sides in town for the tournament.  A welcome addition to the competition.

The festival atmosphere is quickly spreading around the country's biggest city.  The Newcastle Knights were on Auckland's North Shore today, preparing for the festival that is expected to attract 80,000 spectators.

A chance that allows overseas based Māori players to return home to play in front of their families.

Regardless of mode of transport however, the main goal hasnt changed.

Aotea Square will tomorrow host the Fans Day, with hundreds expected to attend.