Berryman to be buried in Perth

Norm Berryman after his final game for Northland, September 2000. Photo / Michael Cunningham

Northland stalwart Norman Berryman will be buried in his adopted home of Perth in Western Australia.

His grieving family relayed news of his tangi on the Tribute to Norman Rangi Berryman Facebook page yesterday after inquiries from family and friends on whether his body would be brought to New Zealand.

A post on the facebook page announced: "Firstly we would like to thank everyone for all the heartfelt messages that we have received. The messages are supporting us in more ways than you will ever realise.

"We are aware that people are very anxious to find out where our father's final resting place will be. Our family can confirm the following: Our father Norman Rangi Berryman will have his funeral in Perth. He will also be laid to rest in Perth so he can be close to his family."

The 42-year-old Northland, three-time Super Rugby championship winner with the Crusaders, All Black and New Zealand Maori representative called Perth home since 2006.

He died of a suspected heart attack early this week after returning from Italy where he took part in a tribute match for Jerry Collins.

Details of his tangi are not yet confirmed. Social media comments from whanau, fans and friends have called for his body to be brought closer to his family in New Zealand, in accordance with Maori tikanga.

The Northland Rugby Union was yesterday considering informing its clubs to observe a moment's silence before kick-off during their local competition this weekend.

Chief executive Jeremy Parkinson said the union could not enforce the wearing of black armbands as that decision would have to be made by the clubs.

Hora Hora and Old Boys' players have confirmed they would observe a moment's silence as well as wear black armbands this weekend.

The Wanneroo Districts Rugby Union Football Club - where Berryman coached for several seasons - is fundraising for his family by holding a sausage sizzle and cake stall tonight to coincide with games for the under-11 and under-17 teams.

There are also plans for Berryman's body to be taken to the club so relatives, friends and supporters can pay their respects.

Players from Wanneroo and Kalamunda - the first WA club Berryman represented - are expected to wear black armbands during their matches this weekend.