Tonga’s jubilant Rugby League World Cup celebrations have been marred by allegations that supporters ripped a traffic sign from the roadside and used it for reckless antics in central Ōtāhuhu, Auckland.
The incident was reported amid widespread celebrations following Tonga’s stunning 30–12 victory over England, which sparked excitement and national pride among Tongan communities in New Zealand and across the Pacific.
The editor of Kakalu O Tonga, ʻUluʻalo Poʻuhila, condemned what appeared to be reckless behaviour by a group of Tonga rugby league supporters after a photograph circulating on social media appeared to show a roadside traffic sign removed and carried through central Ōtāhuhu, Auckland.
He warned that further incidents could prompt Auckland Council to close sections of roads and shopping areas to prevent damage, while police might also have to be deployed to monitor the area.
Reckless Behaviour Draws Criticism
The editor expressed concern that the actions of a small minority could tarnish the happiness, excitement and warmth shared by the wider Tongan community following the victory.
He urged supporters to celebrate responsibly without damaging public property, disrupting businesses or endangering others.
Members of the public were also encouraged to photograph and report any reckless behaviour they witnessed.
Ōtāhuhu, home to a substantial Tongan and wider Pacific population, has long been a gathering place for supporters celebrating major victories by Tonga’s national rugby league team.
It remains unclear whether the sign was damaged or whether the incident was reported to Auckland Council or Police.
Kaniva News has not independently verified the circumstances surrounding its alleged removal.
Previous Celebrations Prompted Warnings
Previous rugby league celebrations involving Tongan supporters in Auckland have prompted repeated police warnings over dangerous driving, disorder and public safety.
During the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, police reported attacks on two officers in separate incidents in Ōtāhuhu, while in 2022 they warned against people riding on moving vehicles, obstructing roads and creating hazards for pedestrians.
Similar concerns resurfaced in 2025, when police arrested 23 people and issued 204 traffic infringement notices following celebrations associated with a Tonga–Samoa match.
Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, police again identified Ōtāhuhu and other Auckland suburbs as potential hotspots, urging supporters to celebrate responsibly without endangering others.