The rugby world is mourning the loss of former Maori All Blacks and Highlanders loose forward Shane Christie, who died in Nelson on Wednesday morning at the age of 39.
According to Planet Rugby , his death is suspected to be linked to suicide.
Christie was known as a natural leader on and off the field. He played 29 matches for the Highlanders between 2014 and 2017 and 73 for Tasman in New Zealand's National Provincial Championship. He also earned eight caps for the Maori All Blacks from 2012 to 2016 Planet Rugby .