Sione Lauaki was buried at the Waikumete Cemetery in West Auckland on Saturday February 18 after a an emotional funeral service attended by over 1000 mourners, who included Sir Graham Henry, and All Blacks players Jerome Kaino and Liam Messam.

A haka was performed at the service by students from Kelston Boys High. Lauaki was an old boy.

Farewell speeches were delivered by Sione's family and friends.

Lauaki's wife Stephanie said at the service

"I'm just really blessed that I can look at my sons and see the love of their father every day...and my love I just want you to know that I will never let them forget how amazing you are".

Sione's younger sister, Paenga Lauaki said in her speech "In 1998, our family was placed with the opportunity to move to New Zealand. Sione was given the chance to make his dream become a reality.

"Sione was a prime example of a man who didn't allow status, fame or wealth get in the way of what primarily matters to him the most, regardless of whatever accomplishment he achieved over the years both on and off the field. He taught us all to never forget where you come from, why your doing what your doing and who you are doing it for."

Lauaki played 17 tests in the All Blacks Jersey, 3 tests for the Pacific Islanders, 70 caps for the Waikato Chiefs, and 51 caps for French club Clermont.