Former All Blacks Tan Umaga and Michael Jones led droves of mourners Auckland to honour the memory of the deceased Jonah Lomu, with a very special Pacific Island farewell.
Thousands assembled today for a 'family day' to pay a traditional Tongan inspired tribute to Jonah Lomu in respect of his Tongan roots. Many of the mourners donned garments called a ta'ovala as part of the occasion. The casket containing the body of Jonah Lomu was placed at the front of the Aho Faka Famili memorial.
Jonah's wife Nadene and sons Dhyreille and Brayley also attended the service wearing All Black jerseys with the name Lomu and his number 11 on the back.
"He took the sport beyond its old boundaries". @andnickmullins pays tribute to Jonah Lomu. https://t.co/DEwl23eHhn
— BT Sport Rugby (@btsportrugby) November 19, 2015
Speaking at the event, a representative of the Queen in New Zealand said:
'Jonah's life is worth celebrating. He impressed us with his courage, his humility, his grace under pressure.'
This is what a chorus for Jonah Lomu sounds like 💔 pic.twitter.com/lYXCLjPcz2
— Kirsty Johnston (@kirsty_johnston) November 22, 2015
Former All Black captain Umaga added that it was important to gather in south Auckland where Lomu was born.
'We come to pay our respects in the area and with the people he grew up with.'
Jonah Lomu, who suffered from a career ending kidney disease, died at his home at just 40 years of age. A public memorial service will be held on Monday at Eden Park in Auckland
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
