It’s just been 24 hours since Ruatōrea mother, Vanessa Ngarimu uploaded a simple "shoutout video" to her Facebook page. Her 10-year-old son, Kuratiwaka pledged his allegiance to star All Black winger, Nehe Milner-Skudder.
“My favourite rugby player in the world, he’s the best and he’s my idol,” says Kuratiwaka in his online shoutout of national pride.
Vanessa Ngarimu, had no idea her son from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Waiū o Ngāti Porou would cause such an online frenzy that would attract more than 30,000 views and 1000 shares.
“I didn’t think much of it to be honest – just showing our support for the boys,” says his mother Vanessa.
The inspired 10-year-old currently plays rugby for the Hikurangi Sports Club and extended an invitation to Nehe to try his mother’s cooking.
“Far Nehe Milner-Skudder, you’re the man! If you ever come around to Ruatōrea, my Mum can make you a cake and if you like kāngawaru, she can make you those too,” says proud Kuratiwaka.
Te Kāea was moved by Kuratiwaka’s plea and our reporter Raniera Harrison pulled a few strings in the All Blacks camp. Even though Nehe is currently preparing for the All Blacks Rugby World Cup final test against Australia tomorrow, he found time to show his young fan some love.
Tune in for the exclusive on Te Kāea, 5:30pm on Māori Television.