'Norm always had my back, I always had his'

Norm Berryman and John Akurangi embrace and hongi after playing in this month's tribute match for Jerry Collins. Photo / Daniele Lazzaretto

Tributes have flowed for fallen rugby hero Norm Berryman following his death earlier this week. In a column for the Herald on Sunday, his great mate John Akurangi has written a moving tribute to his former team mate.

Norm and I were tight. He was here with me in Milan for 10 days earlier this month. We haven't been in the same place together for about 10 years but I knew where to find him and he knew where to find me at all times, always.

While here in Milan we were attached at the hip - made it difficult to sleep that.

The people here in Italy whom he touched in "Norm style" have been sending messages about the impact he had on them in that short time. It's the same impact he had on everyone, "relax and enjoy yourself, just keep smiling and stay happy so that you can be honest with yourself while looking in the mirror".

In 10 days here in Milan he had created a huge following.

Just to have him close was a gift that I will cherish forever. To hear his laughter early morning to late at night.

We spoke of his partner; the brother Norm loved his lady, we spoke of his new babies whom I have not met yet - the two youngest.

We spoke of his two eldest girls, his big boy T (Mister) and how his girl Tatiana is big boss in the house now as his eldest girls have moved out.

I sent a message to his brother Layton. Late is a great man and he never spoke much, but his response to me says everything - "Broken". Yes just the one word. That's all that was needed.

I spent two days crying for the brother Norm and the tears have started to cease. But now, writing this, they are starting again.

He epitomises the saying "live life to the fullest". He epitomises the saying "be your own man".

We were similar in this way which is probably why we were tight. Outspoken, no, only wanting to make our choices as we wanted. The John Hart saga, the not making Northland late in his career ... these obstacles just never phased him.

He kept jumping over them or in Norm fashion would go straight through!

Norm always had my back, I always had his.

Going to miss the brother. We will all miss Norm.