Bundee Aki is every inch the doting dad as he paid tribute to his daughter Armani-Jade as she officially becomes an adult.

The rugby star shares five children with his wife, Kayla: Armani-Jade, Adrianna, Andronicus, Ailbhe and Aine.

With his eldest marking a huge milestone, Bundee is reflecting on how everything changed when he became a father.

Armani-Jade is continuing her studies in New Zealand, and Bundee expressed regret that he couldn’t always be there to celebrate her successes because of his career, as he praised the lovely young woman she has become.

He wrote: ‘Eighteen years ago, you changed my life forever. Knowing and not being able to see and be there to watch all your successes and achievements makes me sad, but not one day goes by that you are not on our minds, especially your siblings.

‘I know one thing for sure, your parents have raised you well and have moulded you into [a] great, kind, and loving young girl.’

He went on to share his hopes for his daughter, saying: ‘Life will bring you many opportunities, challenges and lessons.

‘My hope for you is that you always stay true to who you are. Be brave enough to chase your dreams, humble enough to keep learning and kind enough to lift others along the way.

‘Keep working hard, love deeply, and always remember where you came from.

‘Just know we are your biggest supporters, no matter where we are or where life takes you.’

Bundee continued: ‘We love you more than words could ever express, and we couldn’t be prouder to call you our daughter. Even when we haven’t seen you, you have always and will always be in our hearts and minds.

‘Just know you’ll always be our little girl. I hope you have the best day today, darling. We love you loads and miss you so much. Remember, dream big and never stop believing in yourself.’

What a lovely birthday tribute from a very proud dad!