The Pāpāmoa community is rallying in support of a young family following a critical injury suffered by a rugby league player on the weekend.

A spokesperson for the Pāpāmoa Bulldogs Rugby League & Sports Club broke the tragic news on the club's Facebook page that the player is not expected to recover.

'Kia ora whānau. For those that may or may not know, our brother Tere Livingston was critically injured in Saturday's game, suffering a major brain injury.

'After receiving a scan and surgery he has been putting up a fight for the past few days, however, we've received the devastating news that Tere won't recover.”

It is understood that Tere was taken to Waikato Hopsital following the injury. He has a partner and a 19-month-old son.

'Tere's partner Chloe and their beautiful 19-month-old baby boy, Nīkora, will be deeply impacted by these circumstances.”

Tere Livingston was critically injured in Saturday's game, suffering a major brain injury. Photo: Supplied.

A Givealittle page set up to help support the Tere and his family, on Wednesday had already raised $34,457 in 21 hours from 500 donors.

'An amazing man on and off the field, Tere has impacted us all,” the Facebook post continued.

'His effect on others is profound. He lights up every room with his cheeky smile and is always the first one to bring everyone together, second to none with after match salads and always generous with his full chilly bin.

'His fun loving nature is unmatched and the community of people who love him will feel his loss immensely.

'On the field, he played big minutes in any position, defending hard and playmaking like a half. His skillset and knowledge of the game made him a great player.”

The suddenness and seriousness of the incident and the impact on his fellow club members is being felt very deeply.

The Bulldogs travelled to Waikato hospital on Wednesday and have decided not to play this coming weekend in Rotorua. Instead they are trying to help Tere's whanau as much as possible during this difficult time.

'We're hoping to raise as much money as we can for the mum and the young baby. The club is going to continue supporting Mr Livingstone.”

The club is asking the community, far and wide to support the Givealittle campaign.

'If you have spare change, please donate to this beautiful family or share this post. Your donations will help Tere's whānau, his partner and son during this difficult time.

'Ka nui te aroha.”

The Givealittle page for Tere Livingstone: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/help-support-tere-livingstone.