The Devolo, a Tongan-born New Zealand rapper, surprised the residents of Patangata this morning when he and his friends arrived with a van-load of flour, sugar, noodles and candy, a New Year present for the needy.

True to his namesake, he arrived unannounced and the people of Patangata, located next to the old Nuku'alofa dump, were surprised by the Devolo's friendly handouts.

The Devolo, (literally meaning the Devil) whose real name is 'Iloahelotu Puniani, said that it was his first tour of the Kingdom and he wanted to do something good to people whom he considered to be less fortunate.

He arrived last week to expose his music to the local scene and performed a free show on January 9 at the Steak and Rock Cafe and Bar in downtown Nuku'alofa.

"My name Devolo stands for someone you have to watch out for, someone who is outstanding or devils in their field, for example, Jonah Lomu a hero in the rugby field, Michael Jordan a legend in American basketball history.

"So I am a Devolo in the hip hop scene in NZ so you have to watch out for me," laughs the singer, who was returning to New Zealand today.

The Devolo's Tonga's visit was organised by DJ Willy, the co-founder of the Pride of the Pacific Tour.