Tributes Flow in for 'Big Joe'
"Joeli was a true powerhouse - both in presence and in spirit. During his time in the Cambridge Blue, he brought pride, mana, and warmth to everyone around him. His strength on the field wasmatched only by his humility and kindness off it.
Wednesday 22 October 2025 | 23:30
The rugby fraternity is mourning the death of former Flying Fijians captain and Super Rugby prop Joeli Veitayaki. Veitayaki played 49 games for Fiji, leading the side on a handful of occasions- and featured in the 1999 and 2003 Rugby World Cup squads.
The powerhouse player made his debut against the Maori All Blacks in Christchurch in 1994. Veitayaki was a part of the Fijian side that historically defeated Scotland 51-26 in Suva in 1998, in which he also scored a try. He faced the All Blacks on one occasion in 1997.
His son, Haereiti Hetet, was recently named in the extended Flying Fijians squad for next month's Europe tour.
According to NewstalkZB, the 58-year-old- known affectionately as "Big Joe"- was a regular in New Zealand professional rugby, making 35 appearances for Northland in the National Provincial Championship, and 64 for King Country in the Heartland Championship.
He also played 11 times for the Chiefs in the inaugural season of Super Rugby in 1996, and twice for the Blues in 1998.
In a post to social media, a family member said it was with "deep sadness" she shared the unexpected passing of Veitayaki.
"Joeli's passing has come as a great shock to our family, and we are taking time to come together. A gentle giant with a big heart. He was loved by many and had an huge impact on his community," the tribute read.
"We deeply appreciate all your love, prayers, and support during this difficult time ... We love you dad."
" The Northland Rugby Union Facebook page also paid tribute to Veitayaki.
"Northland Rugby Union joins the wider rugby community in mourning the passing of former Taniwha #675 prop Joeli Veitaya-ki," it posted.
"Joeli was a true powerhouse - both in presence and in spirit. During his time in the Cambridge Blue, he brought pride, mana, and warmth to everyone around him. His strength on the field wasmatched only by his humility and kindness off it.
"He will be remembered not just as a formidable front-rower, but as a teammate, mentor, and friend whose impact reached far beyond the game.
"Our thoughts and aroha are with Joeli's whanau (family), friends, and all who had the privilege of sharing the field or the sideline with him."
