Tongan rugby league star Kotoni Staggs has met his father for the first time as celebrations kick off in Tonga.

Yesterday was a public holiday in Tonga after their rugby league team's historic upset win over Australia at Eden Park two weeks ago.

Part-indigenous star Staggs chose to play for Tonga in June to learn about his Pacific island heritage, having never met his father.

He says to reunite with his dad is a special moment.

Thousands lined the streets of Nuku'alofa, with Wallabies prop Taniela Tupou among those relishing the festivities.

[Source:TVNZ Sports]