Warwick Taylor, a former Canterbury and All Black teamate of the late Jock Hobbs, says he will always remember Hobbs for his committment and enthusiasm.
Jock Hobbs died in Wellington on Tuesday after a lengthy battle with leukemia.
He was 52.
Hobbs played rugby for Canterbury in the 1980s and played 21 Tests for the All Blacks between 1983 and 1986 captaining the side on two overseas tours but retired ahead of the inaugural World Cup after a series of concussions.
He became the chairman of the New Zealand Rugby Union in 2002 and, in 2005, led New Zealand's successful bid to host the 2011 World Cup.
Taylor says as a player Hobbs was underestimated, describing him as full-on both on and off the field.
Hobbs is survived by his wife Nicky and four children.