Police have called for calm after mobs of rugby league fans were fighting in the streets ahead of the Tongan and Samoan match this weekend.
Footage on social media shows groups of youths clashing in Otahuhu. Draped in their national flags, the fans chant and challenge each other, before what appears to be a violent brawl breaks out.
Another video shows a young man hanging out of the windows of the car covered in a flag.
"F**k off home you Samoan!" one supporter screams.
The tension has been blamed on a photo posted to Facebook showing a young man burning a Samoan flag.
Their antics have been criticised on Facebook by unimpressed members of the public.
"Why hating on each other ? We both islander. Can't we cheers for each other team & support MMT & TOA SAMOA," one person asked.
"All these f**kin Fobs man look at you clowns. You giving us a bad f**king name," another said.
"Stop making Tonga look Bad you f**king Coconuts."
The father of the man who burned the flag has made a public apology for his son's actions.
"My family are of Samoan/Tongan descent... please find it in your hearts to forgive my son for his stupidity."
Counties Manukau West Area Commander Inspector Naila Hassan says it’s important supporters out in public behave responsibly and with consideration for others.
“We want everyone to have fun and enjoy themselves, but most importantly we want everyone to be safe.
“We urge supporters to be respectful of the community, local businesses and residents at all times when out in public,” says Inspector Hassan.
She says the main concern for Police is people acting recklessly when travelling in vehicles.
“We’ve had a few reports of people leaning out of cars or sitting on car bonnets.
This risky behaviour is not only illegal but very dangerous.”
“Overall supporters have been well behaved, however the actions of a small number of people have been disappointing," says Inspector Hassan.
“We want everyone to enjoy the tournament and have fun, but please remember to behave responsibly and show respect for others."
Newshub.
