Pua Magasiva has been honoured by his old school, St Patrick’s College Kilbirnie, at a First XV rugby match.
The well-known New Zealand actor was found dead in Wellington on Saturday.
The St Pat’s team wore black armbands and laid a jersey in front of the haka as a mark of respect before kickoff at the match against Hastings’ St John’s College.
Magasiva played for St Pat’s in 1998 wearing the number 14 jersey, alongside former All Black Jerry Collins.
First XV captain Ronaldo Saumanufagai said they were using the game to remember and honour Pua.
“Just to celebrate what he’s done for us as a school … I think it’s good the first team pay some respect to him.”
“This game should be for the family. I just pray that God will be with Pua and his family, especially at this tough time.”
A message on the College’s Facebook page said:
Pua was an Old Boy and is known to many in the rugby community. Our 1st XV coaches Galu Letiu and Kas Lealamanua have a close connection with the Magasiva family.
After leaving school, Magasiva went on to play rugby at Marist St Pats Rugby Club in Hataitai.
Club president Ken Ah Kuoi told the Herald the Magasiva family was well known to the club as players and supporters.
“Pua and his siblings grew up in Wellington and attended St Patrick’s College in Kilbirnie.
“Pua had played with the club after St Pats College, a great player in his own right but I think he wanted to [rather] pursue his acting career.”
Samoa-born, Magasiva was a radio host and had starred in New Zealand movies, but he was most famous for his role as nurse Vinnie Kruse in the soap opera Shortland Street.
A private funeral and reception for family and close friends will be held on Friday afternoon.
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