The Hurricanes and Wellington Rugby are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of one of the region's greatest and most influential rugby personalities, Jonah Lomu.

Hurricanes chief executive Avan Lee said there was no other individual who had made an impact on world rugby quite like Jonah Lomu had.

"He was an extraordinary individual who will be sorely missed by millions of fans around the globe. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jonah's family, especially Nadene and their children."

Wellington Rugby chief executive Steve Rogers said the union expressed its greatest sympathy to the family of Jonah during this time.

"Jonah was an incredibly special part of rugby in our province, and will forever be remembered for his outstanding pace and skill, his strength as a player and person, and his kind and genuine nature both on and off the field.

"The combination he formed with Tana (Umaga) and Cully (Christan Cullen) back in the early 2000s is a partnership that will forever be written in Wellington Rugby folklore. It's something rugby fans not only in Wellington, but around the world, will remember forever."

Jonah played for the Hurricanes and Wellington Lions from 2000-2003.

He played 21 games for Wellington, scoring 13 tries and 65 points, and was part of the provincial side which last won the National Provincial Championship back in 2000.

In his 29 matches for the Hurricanes, he scored 55 points.

Rest in peace Hurricane number 73.