Dr John Mayhew back watching rugby following heart attack

Dr John Mayhew was recently discharged from hospital after suffering a heart attack. Photo / Getty Images

Warriors and former All Black doctor John Mayhew made an appearance at Eden Park this weekend to watch his son take the field for the Blues, just days after being discharged from hospital where he was recovering from a massive heart attack.

Blues prop Nic Mayhew returned to the field for his Super Rugby side last night after suffering a knee injury last month.

His father was in the stands watching.

The younger Mayhew posted a photograph on Instagram of his parents and other supporters.

"Good to be back out playing again tonight and having the family come watch, especially the old boy," he wrote alongside the image.

Nic Mayhew also posted a photo of his father shortly after he was hospitalised.

"So good to have the old boy back with us with an improved sense of humour. Thanks for all the amazing messages, dad's embarrassed," he wrote.

"Onwards and upwards."

His father collapsed after an exercise class in Auckland on April 19. He suffered cardiac arrest and was put in an induced coma.

The following day a family spokesperson confirmed the Warriors doctor, who was previously the All Blacks doctor for 15 years, had a cardiac arrest as a result of a heart problem.

The 60-year-old was successfully resuscitated and put in an induced coma in intensive care in North Shore Hospital.

He was later transferred to Auckland City Hospital and spoke to the Herald about his near-death experience.

"I've been to the Pearly Gates, had a look and decided I'm better off back at work," he said from his hospital bed.

"Only about five per cent of people who suffer what I did, survive, and there are messages for so many people for excellent care inside and outside hospital."