Izzy hopes to be chilling in Bay

After a fierce World Cup campaign on the field during the Rugby World Cup, star All Black Israel Dagg is looking forward to a summer of relaxation at home with family in Hawke's Bay.

His mother Horiana Nukutarawhiti said after final team appearances in Christchurch today and Wellington tomorrow, Dagg hoped to be back in the Bay by Friday.

"He is so proud of what he has done and achieved, but he said 'I'm so pleased I can relax now'.

"He will probably just chill out on his bed, hook up the boat and do a bit of fishing, maybe play a round of golf. Him and [partner] Daisy might take off somewhere for a week."

Ms Nukutarawhiti has seen her son play hundreds of rugby matches, but none more nerve-wracking than Sunday's Rugby World Cup final.

"We were at Eden Park, it was the final and it was intense - I had to leave my seat at 75 minutes," she said.

"I went up to the back with lots of other people who were looking at the TV, putting their faces in their hands, I was pacing and I thought. 'just hang in there', when the final whistle blew I was spare. I was hugging and kissing everyone on the way back to my seat."

Sitting in the family area alongside Dagg's father, uncle and partner she broke down, welling up with pride and joy.

After an emotional win, came a tearful reunion.

"We caught up with Israel back at his hotel, where they had a get-together for the players and their families. He saw us and I think it was the biggest and longest hug he has ever given me and his father - there were a few tears."

When the final whistle blew on Sunday he felt a sense of relief along with the rest of the crowd Ms Nukutarawhiti said.

"They are all really tired and want to get back to their families."