Lomu’s family and friends gathered outside his Auckland home on Friday morning where his old coach John Hart spoke on their behalf, announcing there would be a public service for Jonah, followed by a private funeral at the family’s church. Photo/Fairfax Media (Video)
Jonah Lomu’s family have received Prime Minister ‘Akilisi Pohiva’s Letter of Condolence yesterday at their Epsom residence and were formally informed Prince Ata would attend the All Blacks legend’s memorial services.
The family were greatly pleased with what they were told in a meeting they organised to meet with the Tongan consul in Auckland, Stafford ‘Aho.
‘Aho told Kaniva News this morning he was warmly welcomed by Lomu’s wife Nadene and her family and he appreciated how they reacted when he presented them the Prime Minister’s letter and told them about the Prince’s coming.
According to ‘Aho, the family were really happy about the letter and the fact the Prince would be here to be with them at this very diffcult time.
Hon Pohiva’s letter
“In learning of the passing of All Blacks and Hall of Fame Rugby Union Star, Jonah Lomu, the Prime Minister of Tonga, Hon. Samuela ‘Akilisi Pohiva, conveyed a message of condolence to the wife and family of Jonah Lomu, on behalf of the Government of Tonga on 20 November, 2015”, the Letter of Condolence by Hon. Pohiva says.
“The message highlighted Jonah Lomu as the ‘greatest rugby player in the world’ and “a true beloved son of Tonga.
“The Government of Tonga recognizes the valuable contribution of Jonah Lomu to sports in Tonga and the Pacific, especially towards the professional development and superb performance of rugby internationally.
During this time of mourning, Lomu’s legacy will not be forgotten, and the Government of Tonga would like to express its profound sorrow and heartfelt sympathy, for the loss of a young shining star, that will remain a vivid pillar of hope and inspiration for all Tongans, home and abroad”.
His mother Hepi
Lomu’s mother, Hepi, broke down in tears during the press conference on Friday about her son’s death, as it was revealed it was her birthday.
She clutched two white roses while former All Blacks coach John Hart stood near to her, speaking on behalf of the rugby hero’s family.
Hart announced there would be a public service for Jonah, followed by a private funeral at the family’s church and confirmed Lomu had died from a heart attack related to the kidney disease he had battled for years.
