Former New Zealand captain Colin Meads dies aged 81

Former New Zealand captain Sir Colin Meads has passed away at the age of 81 due to pancreatic cancer.

Meads, who was named the Player of the Century during the NZRFU Awards in 1999 has represented the All Blacks 55 times between 1957 and 1971 and has also captained them on a number of occasions.

He was diagnosed with cancer in August last year and had passed away at Te Kuiti Hospital on Sunday morning after falling seriously ill.

"This is a sad day for New Zealand rugby and for New Zealand," said the country's Prime Minister Bill English.

"I have had the privilege of getting to know Sir Colin. He was not only a great All Black but also a genuinely good New Zealand bloke.

"He represented what it means to be a New Zealander. He was no-nonsense, reliable, hardworking, warm and very generous with his time."

Meanwhile, New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen also paid tribute to the legendary player.

"His achievements in the black jersey are part of the All Blacks legacy and his loss will be felt over the world," Hansen said.

"On behalf of the All Blacks, we'd like to pass on our condolences and sympathy to the family

"He is a legend of the game, a legend of New Zealand's game, and it is always sad when one of the big Kauri trees fall - and that is what has happened."

Nicknamed 'Pinetree' by team-mate Kevin Briscoe in 1958, Meads' reputation for fearless and tough play was sealed when he played an entire match with a broken arm in 1970.

All Blacks captain Kieran Read also expressed his condolences and described it as a "sad day".

"This is an incredibly sad day," said Read.

"Sir Colin was an icon of our game. I met him a few times and he was always keen to share a beer and have a yarn.

"He is an absolute legend, not only in New Zealand rugby, but in world rugby.

"On behalf of all players, our thoughts go out to his family at this time."