Bundee Aki 'a legend in so many ways' hail fans for 'truly special ...
BUNDEE AKI was praised for visiting the LauraLynn Children's Hospice - with the charity saying "you could feel the magic in the air."
The Connacht and Ireland centre has been busy preparing for the province's United Rugby Championship opener against Munster this weekend.
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However, he took time out of his schedule to visit sick kids at the LauraLynn Hospice in Dublin.
LauraLynn shared photos from the visit to Instagram, saying: "What a heartwarming day!
"Ireland and Connacht Rugby legend Bundee Aki recently took a pause from the pitch to visit LauraLynn, bringing joy and laughter to our incredible community.
"As he signed jerseys and chatted with everyone, you could feel the magic in the air - moments like these are truly so special.
"Thank you Bundee Aki and Rugby Players Ireland for your enthusiasm and recognition of the vital work carried out by Ireland's Children's Hospice."
Fans filled the comments with praise for Aki, with one posting: "Looks like a great occasion"
A second said: "Loving the happy smiles all around...Maith Thu Bundee Aki"
Another hailed: "Lovely stuff" wile somebody else said: "beautiful. Amazing work"
Aki was recently among 3,600 people who earned Irish citizenship, having moved to the country from New Zealand in 2014.
And one fan said that his gesture towards the kids demonstrated what being Irish is all about.
Moment Bundee Aki wildly celebrates topless alongside Craig Casey in bar after Ireland second test win over South Africa
They said: "Just goes to show that being a true citizen of a country is not about where you were born, but how you commit to being part of that country.
"Love Bundee he’s a legend in so many ways"
'CHERISH'Speaking to RTE News after being made an Irish citizen, Aki described it as a "not something to be taken lightly" and was a landmark he will "cherish".
He said: "(I've) been here for a long time, I've enjoyed my time in Ireland, I've embraced the people, and the people have embraced me and my family as well.
"To be granted citizenship is not something to be taken lightly.
"I know a few of the lads will be like 'I don't know how you're getting a citizenship' but I know they're all delighted for me and my family is also delighted.
"I'm going to enjoy this moment and cherish it."
Asked by Virgin Media News what he loves about Ireland, he said: "Everthing. I have nothing to complain about here.
"I love the people, I love the culture - (there's) not a bad word I could speak about Ireland.
"Every time I go somewhere with me and my family. People are so welcome and lovely.
"We feel like we're at home at the moment."
