"I was extremely humbled to be presented with the Kirk Award. It has been an absolute pleasure to serve the players," he said.
"I firmly believe in what the NZRPA stands for and the work they are doing. I'm just happy to have been able to play a part in the growth and the development of the organisation and the services it provides for the players."
"I also want to pay special tribute to my wife and my family for their ongoing support."
Northland Rugby Union chief executive Alistair McGinn said it was a thoroughly well-deserved award for Collins.
"Outstanding, wonderful. It's an outstanding performance on and off the field, a fantastic player, a great individual whose work with the NRU has been fantastic."
He is well respected at the NZRPA. He is doing some fantastic work there and helping the younger players through."
"Now he's got a young family and that keeps him busy but he's still found time to do work with Kamo Rugby Club."
Collins has made a significant contribution on behalf of professional players as a long-serving board member of the NZRPA and a veteran of 273 first-class matches.
He started his playing career by making the 1st XV at Kamo High School and then stepped up to Whangarei club rugby.
Before long, he'd made the Taniwha, playing 114 games for the provincial team throughout his career.
The next step was Super Rugby, where he debuted for the Chiefs in 1998 at a time where Northland was part of the Chiefs' region. He played 10 games for the side.
The following year, Northland switched territories to the Blues, so Collins went there and played a further 92 games for the Auckland-based franchise between 1999 and 2009.
McGinn, who also attended the event, said it was clear by the audience reaction how well received his efforts are.
"There was a huge applause. We think we're pretty anonymous up here in the Northland and it was very well received," he said.
"He can't be underrated, his work in rugby has been amazing. He has been extraordinary in his efforts. Those at the Professional Players Association speak very highly of him."
Kirk, the NZRPA founding chairman, said Collins was a very worthy recipient of the award.
"Justin epitomises what is great about New Zealand rugby," he said.
"Players give their all on the field and make contributions as a player, then stay attached to the game to help other young players."
