Joeli Veitayaki, middle, waves to the crowd after their elimination from the Rugby World Cup following their 24-45 defeat against England in the quarter-final play-off game on 20 October 1999 at Twickenham Stadium, London. Photo: AFP /Francois Guillot
The Fijian rugby community is mourning the loss of former Flying Fijians captain Joeli Veitayaki, who died at the age of 58.
Veitayaki played for Fiji between 1994 and 2003, earning 49 Test caps and featuring at two Rugby World Cups. He also played professionally in New Zealand - representing the Chiefs, Blues and Northland - as well as in Ireland for Ulster Rugby.
The former prop had been living in Whangārei, New Zealand, with his family and passed away in hospital on Wednesday.
Tributes have poured in from across the rugby world.
"Joe was one of the original Chiefs representing the club and appearing in every game during our 1996 season. Sending our love to his family, friends, and teammates in this time," Chiefs Rugby said in a statement.
The Northland Rugby Union described Veitayaki as "a true powerhouse - both in presence and in spirit".
"During his time in the Cambridge Blue, he brought pride, mana, and warmth to everyone around him. His strength on the field was matched only by his humility and kindness off it. He will be remembered not just as a formidable front-rower, but as a teammate, mentor, and friend whose impact reached far beyond the game."
Former Flying Fijians captain Seremaia Bai, who played with Veitayaki, also paid tribute to his leadership and guidance.
"Year 2000 when I made my debut with the Flying Fijians as a 21 year old, he made sure that I feel safe and welcomed among senior members and the team (sic)," Bai said in the Facebook post.
Joeli Veitayaki, right, with son Haereiti Hetet, left, and Salesi Rayasi in Suva in July this year. Photo: Facebook / Joeli Veitayaki
He said Veitayaki was "a big man with a big heart".
"Big Joe as he commonly known is known by many across the globe because of his no neck built, his power in the scrum and also his friendly personality.
"He was spotted from the Island Zone Competition representing his Island Team Matuku and selected straight into King Country in New Zealand. The rest is history."
Veitayaki will be buried in Whangārei on Saturday.
