Hawaiian-Tongan singer Josh Tatofi will perform the national anthem and a concert at today’s Kiwis-Tonga game.

Hawaiian-born Tongan singer Josh Tatofi is set to perform the Tongan national anthem and deliver a 30-minute concert following the match between the New Zealand Kiwis and the Tonga national rugby league team at Eden Park in Auckland this Sunday.

Tatofi, a Grammy-nominated artist with roots in Hawaii and Tonga, described the honour as “a blessing” ahead of singing the anthem. The 34-year-old performer rose to prominence across the Pacific region with a blend of Polynesian island soul, R&B and reggae influences.

His post-game concert is already generating excitement, with tickets being snapped up by both rugby fans and music lovers alike. The clash is billed as a full celebration of Pacific identity, rugby, music and culture all in one.

Tatofi says his upbringing in Hawaii and visits to his home villages of Vainī and Ma’ufanga have grounded his music and identity. He told listeners he intends to stay true to the national anthem’s arrangement, saying: “It’s important that I keep it as true as possible.”

With the spotlight on the Pacific Championship fixture, the inclusion of Tatofi’s performance highlights the broader role sport plays in uniting communities and showcasing culture. As one Pacific-music commentary noted, “rugby league Test matches don’t get much better than the Pacific clashes… and to have musicians Josh Tatofi and Savage perform is going to make the night even more memorable.”

For the Kiwis and the Tonga XIII, a win or a loss by less than 17 points will secure a place in next week’s Cup final in Sydney against Samoa.