Jonah Lomu memorial: 'Number 11, our hero in heaven' - Children's tribute gets crowd clapping and singing

It is the tribute that warmed the hearts of the nation and helped mourners at Eden Park and elsewhere remember the happiness Jonah Lomu brought to people's lives.

Students from Favona Primary, where Lomu attended school as a child in Mangere, performed a joyful number at the memorial service and got the crowd clapping and smiling.

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Singing for Lomu: Xavier Mose, Christian Faimalo, Cassius Faimalo and George Silao Malo. Photo / Nick Reed

"Number 11, our hero in heaven," they sang. Even MC John Campbell laughed.

There were 18 year five and six pupils chosen to do a performance in front of the crowd.

They started preparing four days ago after an ex-pupil, Matthew Salapu, suggested the idea to deputy principal Heather Harvey.

Ms Harvey said the students are "very" excited.

Cassius Faimalo, 9, who is part of the group has had his head shaven to resemble Jonah Lomu.

Cassius said his dad did the haircut yesterday.

Asked what he liked the most about Lomu, he said: "How he runs and steps and bumps off."

"Just like Julian Savea," fellow student Xavier Mose quickly added.

Image 1 of 27: Nadene says goodbye to husband and father, ex All Black and rugby great, Jonah Lomu. Photo / Nick Reed