The death of All Black great Sir Colin "Pine Tree" Meads has prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media.
Colin Meads breaks free during the 1971 Lions tour. Photo: Photosport / Peter Bush Collection
Sir Colin, who has died aged 81 after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a year ago, was hailed as rugby colossus.
The King Country farmer, never a fan of the spotlight, would likely have been bemused that Twitter was the first place thatt some people went to make public their sorrow.
So sad to wake up to the news that Sir Colin has died. He had such an influence on my life and many others. RIP Tree Love to Verna & family pic.twitter.com/jqhVJ2DO5m
— Sean Fitzpatrick (@SFitzpatrick92) August 20, 2017
One of New Zealand's true great men has left us. I always felt humbled and privileged in your presence. RIP Sir Colin Meads. #RetiretheAB5
— Miles Davis (@MilesDavisLive) August 20, 2017
RIP Sir Colin Meads. #legend
— Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) August 20, 2017
Rest in Peace Sir Colin Meads. What a true giant of a man.
— Scotty Stevenson (@sumostevenson) August 20, 2017
saddened to hear that one of the great men in rugby has passed away . rest well Colin Meads
— Elliot Wikaira Dixon (@MaoriGC) August 20, 2017
Rest In Peace Sir Colin "Pinetree" Meads. 1936-2017. All Black #583. The thoughts of the rugby community are with the family of Sir Colin. pic.twitter.com/zXmLC2QCMP
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) August 20, 2017
