Connor Garden-Bachop, who played for the Highlanders in Super Rugby and the Māori All Blacks, has died.
He was 25 and had twin daughters.
Garden-Bachop was the son of former All Black Stephen Bachop and former Black Fern Sue Garden-Bachop, who died in 2009.
His uncle was former All Black Graeme Bachop and his brother Jackson also plays professionally.
"On behalf of the entire rugby community, the Highlanders, Wellington Rugby, New Zealand Rugby, the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association would like to extend our deepest thoughts and love to the Garden-Bachop family," NZR said.
He died following a medical event, NZR said.
"Connor was a fantastic young player, an exciting New Zealand age-grade representative and a proud Māori All Black. Wherever he played, he was a committed and popular teammate with infectious energy and someone who could light up the room.
"Most importantly, he was a loving father to his twin girls, a brother, a son and immeasurably loved by all those who knew him."
Connor Garden-Bachop made his debut for the Highlanders in 2021 and also played NPC for Wellington and Canterbury.
He was one of six players confirmed as leaving the Highlanders at the end of this season. The Otago Daily Times reported he was to play in Japan.
"Thank you @highlandersteam for an unforgettable five years," he wrote on Instagram a couple of days ago.
"Thank you to everyone in the south for making me feel at home, and thank you to the boys I have been honoured to share the field with, it’s been a pleasure, I will miss you all. Till next time 💛 #300"
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