Former All Blacks star Norm Hewitt dies at 55 after battle with motor neurone disease

Former All Blacks hooker and reality TV star Norm Hewitt has died aged 55 after a battle with motor neurone disease, his family has said.

The rugby union star played 23 times for New Zealand's famed side, including nine test matches, after making his debut in 1993.

Hewitt was famous for a fiery haka stand-off with England's Richard Cockerill in Manchester in 1997, which entered rugby folklore.

They came face-to-face in a tense pre-match confrontation which ended with the pair shoving each other.

Recalling the moment afterwards, Hewitt said: "It was like there were only two people on that field.

"It was a big game and we were going to war and he's my enemy, kill or be killed scenario. I likened it to that and yeah, I suppose it is now part of that folklore."

After retiring from rugby Hewitt was active in community work as a youth mentor and anti-violence campaigner, and won fame for winning the first season of New Zealand's Dancing With The Stars, a TV dance contest, in 2005.

New Zealand rugby boss Mark Robinson was among those paying tribute, calling Hewitt "uncompromising" on the field but "gracious" off it.

Mr Robinson said: "He was a regular on the sidelines of club rugby, passionate about the provincial game and a proud All Black and Maori All Black. Our thoughts are with Norm's family and loved ones at this time."

Hewitt played 66 matches for Super Rugby side Wellington and competed at provincial level for Hawke's Bay and Southland.

Former teammate Ofisa Tonu'u said he was "devastated" at the news, adding "no more pain brother, you can now rest in love... I know the other boys will be welcoming you with open arms at the gates... Rest in love Normy".

Carol-Ann Hickmore, the professional dancer who partnered him on the show, said on Instagram: "RIP my friend, the best time of my life was experienced with you and what a pleasure it was, great memories, Rest easy big guy."

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Former All Blacks manager Mike Banks, quoted in the New Zealand Herald, said Hewitt was "a totally committed player and because of that commitment, he achieved the ultimate goal of becoming an All Black".

Hewitt famously played on with a broken arm for Wellington when they won the NPC final in 2000.

He was also credited with publicly confronting an alcohol problem and helping others address their issues.