All Black Sonny Bill Williams has landed in Christchurch to support the Muslim community after last Friday's terror attacks.
Fifty people were killed at two mosques shootings, with dozens still being treated for injuries in hospital.
Friday marks one week since the deadly attacks, with several events planned across New Zealand to mark the tragedy.
Williams, a devout Muslim, has taken leave from the Blues and will miss Friday's Super rugby game against the Highlanders.
The 33-year-old used to pray at the Al Noor Mosque when he lived in Christchurch - the place where most of the victims lost their lives.
"I've been to that mosque quite a few times, with my brother and cousins," he said at Christchurch airport.
"It's been very tough, not for myself personally but for us as Muslims and New Zealanders.
"I'm grateful to be here and be practical about it and help up the best way I know possible.
"I'll be heading to Friday prayers. I think it's important to show a united front and get to the mosque, show that."
Williams also posted a photo to his social media accounts of him and Muslim friends enjoying a burger meal together.
"The resilience of my brothers is amazing," the caption read. "We will all return to our maker one-day Alhumdulliah.
"Peace & blessings family."
Earlier in the week, Williams announced he'd combined with the Muslims Around the World Project to raise funds for victims' families.
Williams also posted an emotional video on Twitter hours after the shootings, where he struggled to hold back tears.
Newshub.
