Former Tasman Mako captain and Highlanders flanker Shane Christie has died, aged 39.
His sudden death on Wednesday morning is a suspected suicide.
NZ Rugby paid tribute to Christie, noting his contribution to the teams he represented in Super Rugby and the National Provincial Championship and, later, his willingness to work as a coach.
“It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Shane Christie,’’ NZ Rugby said in a statement issued to Stuff.
“Shane represented Aotearoa New Zealand in both the All Blacks Sevens and the Māori All Blacks jerseys.
“He played in our domestic competitions and Super Rugby, forging deep connections with the Tasman Mako and the Highlanders. He was passionate about coaching, holding coaching roles with Tasman, for both their women’s and men’s teams, and the Highlanders.
Stuff
Face of the Day
“It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Shane Christie,’’ NZ Rugby said in a statement issued to Stuff.
Related
Face of the Day
Mariameno Kapa-Kingi argues that John Tamihere is unlawfully in the role of party president.
Face of the Day
“I respect Mr Coster’s decision. It was the right thing to do,” said Sir Brian Roche in the announcement on Wednesday.
Face of the Day
David Seymour accused the school’s principal Peggy Burrows of being a “media frequent flyer”.
Face of the Day
The 48-year mother-of-one was found dead by her partner during a hunting trip to the Blue Mountains Conservation Area.
Latest
The Plan of MrBeast and the Rockefellers
The water is free, but the children are the price.
Burke’s Top Secret Meeting with Dodgy NGO
“These aren’t people returning from a holiday… these are members of a death cult.”
Blowing a Fortune and Saving a Penny
Allan government vows to bail the state’s sinking ship with a thimble.
A Generous Gift
Trump unleashes $1,000-per-child accounts as billionaire Dell drops $6.25 billion.