The New Zealand Rugby Union have announced that North Harbour and New Zealand under-21 manager Kevin Gimblett suffered a fatal heart attack yesterday.
Gimblett, who had managed the national under-21 side since 2003, and prior to that was under-19 manager, was on holiday in Fiji when the attack happened.
"We would like to pass on our condolences to Kevin's family and friends," NZRU chairman Jock Hobbs said in a statement. "He was highly respected by the rugby community, a popular father figure for our age grade players and made a huge contribution to the game at all levels. He will be missed."
North Harbour Rugby Union chief executive Noel Coom said the organisation was shocked at the news. "Kevin made a significant contribution to North Harbour and New Zealand rugby.
"We will remember him fondly and he will be a difficult figure to replace. We extend our warmest sympathies to his family."
NZPA