The ANZ staff meets the players.

Being the major sponsor of the ANZ Pacific Nations Cup has some benefits, today all the staff in Suva got up close with the players.

A function was held at the banks flagship branch and every worker, their kids & extended friends and family list were there to see the rugby stars. In true Island style Fiji and Tonga were hiding on the edges, but all staff were mingling and getting the valuable photos with some big names in the game.

The Junior All Blacks also took part, in a fantastic gesture to Fijian culture they all turned up in their Sulu (Fijian attire). This acknowledgement of the Fijian way was well received, the JAB’s have a lot of Island influence in their star-studded squad and it is great to see them reconnect with their blood links.

The ANZ has been right behind the carnival of rugby that has hit Fiji, as the major sponsor they have worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth & successful tournament. Today was a day aimed at all those who work the counters, answer the phones and do the grunt for the great bank. Watching the celebrations staff were eager for images with the next All Blacks, as well as the Fijians and Tongan boys.

The ANZ were great hosts, they had food galore, short sharp speeches and just enjoyed the presence of the players. In return the Fiji team sung a local favourite, but it was the Tongans that stole the show. Up came some huge guys; out came some of the softest and nicest rhythm you will ever hear. If that was already enough they had a couple of boys step up the and bust some moves. In stuff that the late/great Michael Jackson would approve of, they dazzled the crowds and got an ovation worthy of the fine entertainment.

In a showing of great spirit all the teams were only too happy to pose and make little kids and big kids days in the process. After the food, signatures and festive time the 3 teams departed, moments later they will be splatted all over facebook and work computers as screensavers for a long time.