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They answered questions from students from Rotorua primary schools and then took part in a jump jam with Lynmore Primary students. Afterwards they signed autographs for hundreds of fans.
Their morning started with a session at Messam's old school, Rotorua Boys' High School.
"It wasn't that long ago that we were in school," said McCaw.
"People think it's unreachable and you have to come from a certain background but anyone can get there if they're good enough and prepared to work hard enough. Any single one of them out there could potentially be an All Black."
Messam said he was glad to be back in his hometown, although only fleetingly.
"It's awesome to come here and bring the boys down to experience Rotorua. We never had any All Blacks come to our school, but I remember Wayne Ormond came when he was in the Chiefs. Hopefully we've inspired some kids to chase their dream. If they can do that, that would be awesome."
Bay of Plenty Rugby Union secondary schools rugby manager Kyle McLean said the All Blacks visits were shared around the region. Last year they visited Tauranga and next year would be another town's turn. "This is a great opportunity for player engagement. We're really lucky to host them here. The crowd is amazing. I think it's exceeded our expectations - a much bigger crowd than we had planned for."
The students asked about first clubs, biggest inspiration, training and whether they wore the same rugby boots for each game.
"I always wear the same boots but every test jersey is different," McCaw told them.
See www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz for video footage from yesterday's event.
