Former All Blacks doctor John Mayhew. Photo / Photosport
Former All Blacks doctor John Mayhew. Photo / Photosport
Former All Blacks team doctor John “Doc” Mayhew has died.
Mayhew served as the All Blacks team doctor from 1988 to 2004, attending 131 tests and more than 200 matches.
Mayhew also held roles with the Blues and the New Zealand Warriors throughout his career, showcasing his versatility and commitment to sports medicine.
He had also served as the North Harbour Rugby Union’s doctor since 1985 – the year of the union’s inception. He was made a life member of the union in 2015.
In 2016, Mayhew was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to sports medicine, reflecting his significant contributions to the field.
North Harbour released a lengthy statement confirming the news, saying Mayhew passed away peacefully this afternoon, surrounded by loved ones, following recent heart complications.
“John’s passing is a devastating loss to North Harbour Rugby and the wider rugby community,” Harbour chief executive Adrian Donald said.
“His contribution was significant and touched many people within the game. He is a valued and respected rugby man and a great Harbour man. Our thoughts are with his family as we remember a remarkable man who gave so much to the game.”
Speaking to NewstalkZB’s D’Arcy Waldegrave, New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson remembered Mayhew as a man who had a massive impact across the game.
“He’s obviously deeply respected in the North Harbour region, where he’s been connected to the game for a very long time, and had an amazing tenure with New Zealand Rugby and the All Blacks, where he looked after a whole generation of players and served the team with massive distinction,” he said.
“[He was] just a huge servant to the game, deeply cared for and loved across all levels of the game, and we’re going to miss him.”
New Zealand Warriors CEO Cameron George said the club was “utterly devastated and saddened”.
Mayhew served as the Warriors team doctor for 14 seasons between 2005 and 2019. Photo / Photosport
Mayhew served the Warriors for 14 seasons after joining the club in late 2005 and his first NRL match as club doctor was against the Melbourne Storm in 2006. George said he would be honoured and remembered this weekend as the Warriors face Melbourne once again.
“As well as being so admired and respected as an expert in his field, John was a truly wonderful person, so well-liked by staff and players alike. He had a terrific manner and always had time for everyone,” George said.
“Doc made a tremendous contribution to our club, playing a vital role in the careers of so many players who came under his care during his time with us.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to John’s wife Sue, his family and close friends at this terrible time. We’ll always remember him with great fondness.”
