Kotoni Staggs last month gratefully honoured his grandmother’s life when he went home to central NSW to take part in the annual Koori Knockout.

On Saturday, he will do so again when he returns to Tonga’s invitational side to play Test football against Australia at Auckland’s Eden Park, following her death.

Staggs missed last week’s international win over Great Britain after attending the funeral of the woman who largely raised him in the absence of his birth mother.

“She was a big part in my life. I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for her. I had to go back and support my nan,” he told AAP.

“It was very emotional. I’m just glad that we send her away on good terms and she’s looking down below from up above to me now.

“I know she’s there with me all the time I take the field now as well.”

Dawn’s passing came just after Staggs, who turned 21 this week, spent time with her during a winning campaign at the Dubbo Waratahs Rugby League knockout.

He then played with the Nanima Common Connection side at the Koori Knockout in Wellington, an appearance the Brisbane centre tries to get home for every year.

Dawn, who missed Staggs’ NRL debut with the Broncos last year because she was rushed to hospital with a throat infection, watched both tournaments.

“I just go back to play in my town, in my community, give back to my community as well. That’s what I love to do. I love to give back to my people,” Staggs said.

“But she was there (for the knockouts). I’ve always wanted to play in the knockouts but if it wasn’t for my nan, I wouldn’t be playing footy.

“I grew up with my nan and my nan was my mum. She’s the one that led me to playing rugby league. If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be here today.”

The anticipated contest against the Kangaroos caps off an impressive season for Staggs, who established himself on the Broncos’ right edge.

Already signed with them for next year, he is also thought to be on the cusp of securing a lengthy extension.

“Hopefully I can stay at the club for a long time,” said Staggs, who qualifies for Tonga through his dad.