At the age of 12, lock forward Koki Wu from Canley Heights Primary School towers over his team-mates, who look up to him in more ways than one.

But as the team prepare for their grand final this week, they will be doing so without Koki, who is in Darwin with the NSW under 12 rugby league team.

He's pursuing his dream of one day playing for the New Zealand Warriors in the NRL.

Arriving in Australia from New Zealand three years ago, Koki has fast earned a reputation as one of the region's most talented footballers, playing for his school, the Marconi Mustangs and Sydney South West.

Admiring team-mates describe him as ``a monster'' and ``a machine'', while coach Tony Allen believes he is the complete package. ``I have seen some prospects over the years, but this kid can really be a big thing in the game,'' he said. ``He's quite a role model off the field as well.''

Koki's school has helped fund his tour, raising more than $1500 with a mufti day and sausage sizzle.