Tributes are flowing in for Sione Lauaki who tragically passed away on Saturday from kidney failure. His former club, The Waikato Chiefs, stated on Twitter "Rest in peace Sione, always a Chief...our thoughts and prayers are with Sione’s family and friends and with the entire Chiefs whanau as today we have lost a brother."

Sione Lauaki, a former All Black, only 35 years-old and was reportedly diagnosed with kidney and heart problems in 2012. New Zealand rugby stated that he was surrounded by family and friends when he passed away.

The All Blacks stated on Twitter "The thoughts of everyone are with the family of Sione Lauaki. Sione played 17 Tests from 2005-2008. Gone too soon. RIP, Wax."

Tongan born, Sione Lauaki moved to New Zealand with his family when he was eight-years-old. He began playing for the Waikato Chiefs in 2004. He played for the Pacific Islanders in 2004 and wore the All Blacks jersey from 2005 to 2008. He was a feared flanker, and at the peak of his career he was reknowned for his ability to fendoff would be tacklers. 

Lauaki's funeral plans are yet to be announced.