Maori All Black Shane Christie passes away aged 39

The New Zealand rugby community is mourning the loss of Shane Christie following his passing on Wednesday morning.

Christie was a Tasman Mako captain in the NPC, a one-time Crusader and 29-cap Highlanders flanker, who earned eight Maori All Blacks caps in his playing career.

He went on to join the Mako and Highlanders coaching groups, with his Super Rugby coaching career including the 2021 and 2022 seasons.

New Zealand Rugby paid tribute to Christie in a statement issued to Kiwi outlet Stuff.

“It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Shane Christie,’’ the governing body said.

“Shane represented Aotearoa New Zealand in both the All Blacks Sevens and the Maori 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.

“Any time the rugby community loses a member, it is felt deeply. Shane’s passion for the game will be remembered always. Our thoughts are with Shane’s whanau, friends, former team-mates, and community at this incredibly difficult time.’’

The Tasman Mako have paid tribute to their former captain, whose contributions are remembered as foundational to the club’s current environment.

“Shane is a true legend of Tasman Rugby. Between 2010 and 2016, he played 73 games for the Mako, captaining the 2013 Championship-winning side and helping to lay the cultural foundations that underpinned the Premiership success to follow,” the club said in a statement on social media.

“After retiring, Shane moved into coaching in 2018, playing a key role in delivering back-to-back Premiership titles in 2019 and 2020. More recently, he continued to give back to the game through the FPC coaching group until 2023.

“A proud Tassy man, Shane will be dearly missed by his teammates, colleagues, and the wider rugby whanau.”

The Highlanders have also paid their respects.

“It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Highlander #212, Shane Christie,” a social media post from the club read.

“Shane represented the Highlanders, playing 29 games between 2014 and 2017. A relentless competitor and natural leader, he co-captained the side in 2016 alongside Ben Smith, guiding the team with integrity and heart.

“His contribution extended beyond the playing field—Shane returned as our Defence Coach in 2021 and 2022, bringing the same passion and commitment that defined his playing career.

“Our thoughts are with his whanau, friends, and the wider rugby community.

“Moe mai ra, Shane.”