Former long-serving All Blacks doctor John “Doc” Mayhew has died.
North Harbour Rugby, with whom Mayhew had a long affiliation, released a statement today saying Mayhew, 69, died this afternoon.
“It is with deep sadness that the Mayhew family have advised us of the passing of Dr John “Doc” Mayhew (ONZM),” the statement said.
“He peacefully passed away this afternoon, surrounded by loved ones, following recent heart complications. [He was] a cherished member of our rugby family and a distinguished figure in New Zealand's rugby community.
“Our deepest sympathies are with his family during this difficult time.”
Mayhew, who also had long associations with the Blues rugby and Warriors league franchises, had a heart attack in 2016.
In the same year he was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to sports medicine.
Mayhew was the All Blacks' team doctor from 1988 to 2004, a period spanning 131 Tests.
“John’s passing is a devastating loss to North Harbour Rugby and the wider rugby community,” North Harbour Rugby chief executive Adrian Donald said.
“His contribution was significant and touched many people within the game. He is a valued and respected rugby man, and a great Harbour man.
“Our thoughts are with his family as we remember a remarkable man who gave so much to the game."
Mayhew began with Harbour in 1985 – the year of the province’s inception.
He was a life member of the Northcote Rugby Club, where he played nearly 200 games.
SHARE ME