'Making new friends' - Sonny Bill Williams visits Syrian refugees in Lebanon

Sonny Bill Williams with his new friend, Yehiah. Photo / Twitter

All Black Sonny Bill Williams is taking time out from his busy sporting schedule to highlight the plight of Syrian children living in refugee camps in Lebanon.

A series of fresh pictures have been released documenting the Unicef New Zealand ambassador touring a refugee camp and seeing what life is like for children whose lives have been affected by the Middle Eastern crisis.

Photos show the towering rugby star visiting makeshift school rooms, spending time with families in tents and mixing with youngsters throughout the camp.

"Making new friends in Faida-Bekaa may the most high protect and bless them," tweeted Williams, flanked by two young girls.

Making new friends in Faida-Bekaa may the most high protect and bless them 🙌🏽 pic.twitter.com/MAdCAPtO07

— Sonny Bill Williams (@SonnyBWilliams) December 7, 2015

In other photos, Williams is shown playing with a young boy, the pair smiling from a boisterous encounter.

Sonny playing Yehiah @UNICEFNZ @SonnyBWilliams pic.twitter.com/MCBgdwQV9i

— UNICEF New Zealand (@UNICEFNZ) December 7, 2015

Another picture shows him surrounded by youngsters getting into the spirit of the season and wearing Santa Claus costumes.

His visit is drawing widespread praise from supporters the world over including fellow sportsmen.

Sonny Bill Williams meeting kids at Saadnayel pic.twitter.com/3WvKXpZB6N

— UNICEF New Zealand (@UNICEFNZ) December 7, 2015

"Good to see you help make a change in this world cuz," tweeted Tim Nanai Williams.

Tweeted Saad Soubra: "Respect to you SBW."