All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has led the tributes for All Black great Sidney Going, who passed away yesterday, aged 80.
In a release from New Zealand Rugby (NZR), Robertson called Going a "special player and man in our game".
"He lit up the field with his ability and energy. He lit up people's hearts up off it — that was his trademark."
NZR chief executive Mark Robinson said in a tribute: "It's incredibly sad to hear of Sid's passing.
"He was a dynamic player and one of the greatest halfbacks in All Blacks history. He had an immense pride in wearing the All Blacks jersey and representing New Zealand Māori, something which greatly endeared him to fans.
"We send our condolences and aroha to his family and loved ones."
Northland Rugby chief executive Cameron Bell said his words "would not come close to evoking the mana that Sid holds within our province", and that "we will respectfully mourn his passing, but also remember all that he has given our game of rugby".
Northland National MP Grant McCallum posted a message of condolence on Facebook, calling Going an "amazing person and player".
"He won the Tom French Cup for the best Māori player 6 times. A record that still stands. He was my childhood hero and this famous Peter Bush photo hangs with pride in my office in Parliament," McCallum said.
Sports broadcaster James McOnie led the tributes on social media platform X, saying "Moe mai rā e te rangatira."
Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said Going's death will have a significant impact on the rugby community in Aotearoa.
Going's rugby career began at Mid Northern Rugby Club, making his debut for Northland at the age of 18.
He is on a billboard that welcomes travellers to the Far North.
"The Going name was written into Northland rugby folklore by the Ranfurly Shield-winning performances of Sid and his brothers Ken and Brian during the 1970's," NZR said.
Going, who held the nickname "Super Sid," represented the All Blacks from 1967 to 1977, playing 29 Tests and 57 games, including five as captain.
He was a halfback for both the All Blacks and Māori All Blacks.
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