Connor Garden-Bachop dead at 25 – New Zealand rugby star dies after suffering ‘medical event’ as tributes flood in

They described him as a "fantastic young player" and a "committed and popular teammate with infectious energy".

A touching tribute posted by the union to X read: "Our deepest condolences are with the family, friends and teammates of Connor Garden-Bachop who passed away yesterday.

"He will be remembered as a popular teammate amongst the Māori All Blacks, Highlanders and Wellington."

He was a loving father to his twin girls, a brother, a son and immeasurably loved by all those who knew him

New Zealand Rugby

Their full statement read: “On behalf of the entire rugby community, the Highlanders, Wellington Rugby, New Zealand Rugby, the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association would like to extend our deepest thoughts and love to the Garden-Bachop family.

”Connor was a fantastic young player, an exciting New Zealand age-grade representative and a proud Māori All Black.

"Wherever he played, he was a committed and popular teammate with infectious energy and someone who could light up the room.

”Most importantly, he was a loving father to his twin girls, a brother, a son and immeasurably loved by all those who knew him.”

The statement included a section in New Zealand's indigenous Maori language, which said “the rugby world weeps for you”.

Fans paid tribute to the athlete after his death was announced on X.