Hamilton mayor Andrew King is calling for peaceful rivalry among the Tongan and Samoan fans as the city prepares to host the two nations for a Rugby League World Cup clash on Saturday evening.
Waikato Stadium is expected to welcome a large contingent of supporters from both sides.
Tensions are high after a number of clashes between Samoan and Tongan fans in south Auckland this week, including one in Otara involving 200 people and weapons in which police made six arrests.
"Tonga and Samoa communities have a fantastic relationship - it's a special bond and one underpinned by the importance of the Christian faith," Mr King says.
"The two island nations also have a huge sporting rivalry, and that rivalry needs to stay on the field."
He said disorderly behaviour will not be tolerated at the stadium and urged respect among fans and shown towards players, officials and staff running the event.
Police have indicated they will have a noticeable presence in Hamilton for the match.
Superintendent Sandra Manderson, the national commander of major sporting events, says police "want everybody to have a safe and enjoyable time and remember this special occasion for all the right reasons"
On Wednesday, video emerged of an ugly street punch-up in south Auckland, showing a gang of yelling and screaming Samoan supporters surrounding a vehicle, while someone is attacked.
And earlier in the week mobs of rugby league fans fought in the street in Otahuhu.
Samoan and Tongan police have issued a heart-felt message to the community.
Their calls have been echoed on social media by rugby league fans with the hashtag #Tokouso, disappointed the ugly scenes are undermining their Pasifika brotherhood.
Former heavyweight boxer David Tua has joined Samoa rugby league players and community leaders in urging fans to keep their cool.
Senior Samoa forward Joseph Paulo fronted a video posted on social media asking fans to refrain from fighting after several violent confrontations in Auckland over the past few days.
Paulo was joined by several teammates including Sam Tagataese, along with Tua and Labour MP's Jenny Salesa and Aupito William Sio to remind fans to stay calm in the lead-up to the highly anticipated clash at Waikato Stadium.
"We just want to send a message of hope and peace to our fans," said Paulo.
"It's Tonga and Samoa, we're all islanders, we're proud of where we come from.
"David Tua's had many fights in the ring but we don't want any fights or violence and especially on Saturday night.
"We want a clean game and we want you guys to witness what we're about and that's to represent you guys.
"And we hope you guys can represent us off the field and we can keep sending a message that we love all people and love all nations."
A strong Police presence is expected to be on hand at the match with growing concerns about the climbing levels of violent behaviour among island communities.
Superintendent Sandra Manderson, national commander of major sporting events, said it was great to see the enthusiasm shown by fans but some had taken it too far.
"We want everyone to have a good time, but we won't tolerate people behaving in a way that spoils it for others," she said.
Speaking to One News, Tua reiterated the need for fans to stay out of trouble and enjoy the game in the right spirit.
"This game is an amazing game for the Tongans and Samoans," Tua said.
"Obviously there's been a lot of things happening, but I just want to reach out to the community.
"Please, let's support our boys and give them the best support that we can can.
"Leave them to do the best that they can on the field, because at the end of the day it's for the World Cup."
Tonga captain Sika Manu delivered a similar video message on Wednesday, as both teams moved to address the issue.
"Just a message to our Toko's and Uso's out there - please keep the peace," said Manu. "We're all from the islands, let's keep the peace."