"We are all just shattered, this is just awful news," he said.
"I have spoken to Andrea and she is in a state of shock right now trying to come to terms with what has happened, we all are. She is with Laurent's family and they are supporting each other in this time of grief. Laurent was always so positive. A real inspiration to me and to so many people around the world."
Triathlon NZ said: "The thoughts of the entire NZ Triathlon community are with Andrea and Laurent's family at this difficult time as privacy is requested during this time of grieving".
Vidal competed in the triathlon at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and placed fifth in the 2012 London Olympics.
He spent his life between Sète in southern France and Christchurch, the hometown of Hewitt.
In April last year, Vidal went into cardiac arrest following a training swim at a pool in Sete, according to French media reports. He experienced chest pain while swimming and left the water to seek help from employees at the pool. He was airlifted to a hospital in nearby Montpellier, where he was placed in an induced coma for at least 48 hours.
Tributes are flowing for the Frenchman.
Kiwi triathlete Terenzo Bozzone said: "Can't believe this. Thoughts and prayers with @andreahewittnz and the family of Laurent Vidal. You will be missed man. Rest easy."
Aileen Reid, a triathlete from Northern Ireland, said: "Loss of a good man. RIP Laurent Vidal. Thoughts with @andreahewittnz & family."
Kiwi triathlete Kris Gemmell said: "'I'm lost I'm hurt but blessed u were in my life we had so much planned I will keep our dream alive @laurentvidal xo".
And eleven-time Ironman champion Cameron Brown tweeted: "So sad to hear the news of Laurent Vidal passing away, thoughts and prayers to @andreahewittnz and family."
Olympian and triathlete Ryan Sissons tweeted: "Life is not fair sometimes. Love you bro."
Tributes can be left on the Triathlon New Zealand Facebook page.
