Porirua rugby legend Jerry Collins has been posthumously inducted into the 2026 Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame, recognising his enduring impact on the sport and his home community.
The induction ceremony was held at Eden Park in Auckland on Thursday, March 26, with Collins among seven Pasifika rugby greats honoured for their contributions on and off the field.
Born in Apia, Samoa, and raised in Porirua, Collins became one of the All Blacks’ most respected loose forwards, earning 48 Test caps between 2001 and 2007. Known for his powerful defence and uncompromising style, he also captained New Zealand and played a key role for the Hurricanes during his Super Rugby career.
Collins died tragically in 2015 alongside his partner Alana Madill in a car crash in France. He was 34. His legacy has remained strong in Porirua, where he grew up and began his rugby journey with Northern United Rugby Football Club.
Family members, including his father Frank and sister Brenda, attended the Auckland ceremony, joined by club representatives and members of the wider rugby community.
Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame chair Michael Jones said the inductees represent more than sporting success.
“Our inductees are not only outstanding athletes, they are leaders, cultural ambassadors and role models whose impact reaches far beyond the field,” Jones said.
Also inducted this year was former All Blacks hooker Keven Mealamu, alongside Lilomaiava Aiolupotea Taufusi Salesa, Fe’ao Vunipola, Pio-Bosco Tikoisuva, Luamanuvao Muliagatele Niuafolau Alaisalatemaota Bakulich-Leavasa and Niumata DJ Forbes.
Established to honour the legacy of Pasifika players across rugby union and sevens, the Hall of Fame recognises athletes whose influence extends beyond performance into leadership, cultural pride and community impact.
For Porirua, Collins’ induction carries deep local significance. His name already lives on through Jerry Collins Stadium, but this latest honour cements his place among the greatest Pasifika figures in rugby history.
The Hall of Fame also recognised current players through its annual awards, highlighting those continuing to advance Pasifika excellence in the global game.
