This weekend’s Old Timers Day at Northern United Rugby Football Club marked ten years since the passing of All Black great Jerry Collins, bringing together whānau, former teammates, and the wider Porirua community in a series of moving tributes.
The club unveiled a commemorative jersey designed in collaboration with Collins’ aiga, the Club and the Western Bays, representing the roots that shaped his life and career. The design was described as more than just a uniform — a tribute to his spirit and enduring legacy. Designed by Jeremy and the team at CUS.
Tana Umaga joined the celebrations, reflecting on Collins’ influence and sharing moments with those who knew him best. Club member Geoff Hayward recalled briefly meeting Umaga at the event and was especially moved by Umaga’s daughter, who took a photo for him.
“I had to tell him how impressed I was with his daughter — she’s studying at university in the same field I did years ago,” Hayward said. “I can only imagine how proud he must be of her.”
Friday evening featured a tribute match between former All Blacks and Hurricanes players and a St Pat’s Town Invitational XV. On Saturday, Northern United took on Paremata-Plimmerton for the Ivan Hardgrave Trophy, a match steeped in local rugby tradition.
The Collins whānau provided food and a sausage sizzle for tamariki, and a haka was performed in his honour, highlighting the mana he continues to hold in the community.
As Hayward put it, “Today was a reminder of #tatoutatou.” Ten years on, Collins’ legacy remains strong — grounded in his roots, his club, and the community that raised him.
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