The Super Rugby community is grieving following the death of 21-year-old Mereana Muriwai, the wife of Hurricanes halfback Nui Muriwai.
Mereana had been battling an extremely rare and aggressive form of ovarian cancer – small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcaemic type – and was believed to be the only known case in New Zealand. She died on Monday surrounded by her family, Wellington Rugby confirmed ahead of her funeral on Thursday.
“She is remembered as a loving, thoughtful and fiercely supportive young wahine whose warmth uplifted everyone around her,” the union said in a statement. “Our deepest aroha goes out to Nui, the whanau (family), and all who loved Mereana. Our rugby community stands firmly with you at this incredibly difficult time. Moe mai ra, Mereana.”
Nui spoke at the funeral, paying tribute to his wife’s spirit and strength.
“Mereana, this past year you’ve shown me what true courage, bravery, resilience and grace looks like,” he said. “You’ve completely changed my perspective on life and I have become a better man. You will always have a special place in my heart.”
The pair married in October after learning her cancer had progressed. Sharing photos from their wedding, Mereana wrote: “Words couldn’t explain all the feelings that have been felt this past week and a bit. I love you into the afterlife.”
Just days later, in a heartbreaking post, she shared that she had accepted her fate as the disease continued to spread. “I promise I have tried everything… I simply cannot handle the pain any more,” she wrote.
A fundraiser launched to support potential overseas treatment raised more than $NZ83,000, with a Hurricanes charity auction adding a further $NZ50,000. But despite the overwhelming support, treatment options remained limited.
On Thursday, the Hurricanes paid their own emotional tribute.
“The cold wind of loss rests on our hearts as we mourn your loss, Mereana,” the club said. “Although we know you will still watch over Nui over there, please know we will still watch over him here.”
Mereana is being remembered across New Zealand rugby for her warmth, bravery and unwavering love – a young life gone far too soon.
Images: Instagram
