What a change from the post-match speeches we have become used to, littered with "full credits" and "game of two halves".
And hard case, that Isaiah Apiata - a nephew of Victoria Cross recipient Willie Apiata - displayed some of his uncle's humility by saying he only got selected as part of the welcoming party because he was from the area.
And then he reckoned that he didn't really like rugby, and was - shock horror - supporting Fiji.
The making of the RWC 2011 will be in the people, in the way we treat our manuhiri.
RWC boss Martin Snedden told an intrigued gathering of journalists and newspaper executives last year that there was no flashy marketing plan for the World Cup.
He simply wanted New Zealanders to be great ambassadors for our country, and to treat our visitors with respect, and kindness.
He's right - how successful the RWC will be as an event for New Zealand will not depend on the souvenirs or rugby memories that people take away with them, but on how they judge and assess our country and people while they are here.
On that note, let's make them feel welcome.
There's one more reason for us to bebrilliant hosts - it will help ease the pain of an All Black victory!
editor@northernadvocate.co.nz
