The rugby world is mourning the passing of Luke Crawford, a revered leader who championed Māori culture and transformed New Zealand Rugby.

Luke Mikaire Crawford (Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Porou, and Ngāti Toa via Puhiwahine) served as NZR’s Kaihautu Māori (Chief Advisor Māori) since 2018 and Māori All Blacks Kaumatua from 2010.

Renowned as one of rugby’s most respected Māori leaders, he was a trusted advisor across all levels of the game.

A former policeman dedicated to community service, Matua Luke was a gifted orator, writer, and musician. He passionately believed in rugby’s power to unite people and celebrate Māori culture.

Crawford was instrumental to New Zealand Rugby's commitment to tikanga Māori, developing "Te Ara Ranga Tira" (The Rugby Way), a set of values fostering inclusivity and fairness, CEO Mark Robinson said.

“Matua Luke was a wonderful man and a real taonga for our organisation and the entire game in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our thoughts are with his whānau. He leaves an amazing legacy," he said.

Matua Luke collaborated on initiatives like the All Blacks Experience in Auckland, Māori All Blacks jerseys, and cultural taonga replacing traditional trophies, said New Zealand Rugby chair Dame Patsy Reddy.

“Luke was a truly great man and a wonderful friend. His leadership and passion for tikanga Māori profoundly changed rugby for the better.”

Crawford was a pillar of strength for his kindness and insight enhanced for the communities, people, and mission of New Zeland Rugby, Māori Rugby board chair Dame professor Farah Palmer said.

"Rugby’s thoughts and love are with Matua Luke’s wife Stephanie, children Hutana and Abigail, son-in-law Lachie, and the wider whānau. His immense contribution will inspire generations to come," Palmer said.