Patrick Herbert's jovial description of the All Stars typifies what the celebration is all about.
"It's a good thing for us Māoris and Indigenous people to get together, bash each other up and then have a cuddle at the end of the day," the Titans centre joked.
Bringing together two cultures; proud of their heritage and traditions, and their love for rugby league, the week-long initiative focusses on bringing the two groups together to showcase their connection to their heritage and their pride of representing that on the big stage.
"All Stars is massive for two passionate cultures going head-to-head in the pre-season. Everyone is watching it, so I think it’s a good game to show everyone what we’re capable of and the talent that we have and our culture," Herbert said.
"It’s going to be good. It’s always good and a good week away as well."
Born in Whakatane, this weekend will be the 25-year-old's second appearance for his native homeland after starring in the 10-10 draw last season, and as a proud Māori from the North Island of New Zealand, Herbert enjoys the chance to refresh his knowledge of his cultural traditions and share it among his Kiwi whānau.
"You never forget who you are," Herbert said.
"I'm not too far away from my roots. I sort of know who I am. I’m pretty grounded as a Māori boy from back home.
"I don’t think you really learn too much more... it’s sort of just a refresher.
"In the camp, you’re just around the blokes who are the same culture as you and everyone’s really passionate.
"We’ve all got similar traits and similar interests. We’ve all like to play rugby league and rugby league brought us and our culture together."
Up against Titans teammates David Fifita and Will Smith - who will represent the Indigenous All Stars - the strike weapon is weary of the fellow Gold Coast powerhouse back-rower, given his relentlessness in the pre-season to be in the best possible shape ahead of 2022.
"One thing to expect from Dave is that he’s always going 110 percent, even if it’s at training," Herbert said.
"I know we have to do a really good job on him. It’s going to be tough.
"He’s fitter, faster and stronger than he was last year, and we just have to aim up and hopefully contain the beast.
"We’re all friends. Even on the field, we have a bit of banter but it’s all friendly.
"It's the first game of the year and it’s 20-minute quarters I think, so it’s a good way to dust off the cobwebs and test ourselves before we start playing for the club."
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