Former Highlanders flanker Shane Christie has died in Nelson aged 39.
His death in a suspected suicide comes two years after the loss of his close friend Billy Guyton who had a brain injury likely to be connected with repeated head knocks.
Christie played 29 games for the Highlanders between 2014 and 2017 and was the defence coach for the club in 2021 and 2022.
He also clocked 73 games for Tasman in the NPC, nine games for Buller, eight games for the Māori All Blacks and made one appearance for the Crusaders in 2013.
Christie was forced into early retirement at 32 following a series of concussions.
After his retirement he continued to struggle with symptoms and spoke out about the dangers of head injuries in rugby.
Christie told The New Zealand Herald last year he had suffered more than 10 concussions in his career, and head knocks he suffered while playing for the Highlanders in 2016 had started his spiral.
“For three months I wasn’t recovering in time and then realised, ‘S..., I have done a bit of damage to myself,'' Christie told the Herald.
"I will spend another three or four months trying to come right. And it didn’t come right.”
His last two concussions came during training sessions, Christie claimed.
“One of them was on my chest, one was on the side of my head . . . that is what bought my symptoms back enough for me to go, ‘I am not quite right, what is going on?’.”
The Highlanders expressed their sadness at Christie's death.
"It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Highlander No 212, Shane Christie.
"A relentless competitor and natural leader, he co-captained the side in 2016 alongside Ben Smith, guiding the team with integrity and heart.
"His contribution extended beyond the playing field - Shane returned as our defence coach in 2021 and 2022, bringing the same passion and commitment that defined his playing career.
"Our thoughts are with his whānau, friends, and the wider rugby community.
"Moe mai rā, Shane."
New Zealand Rugby said it acknowledged Christie’s death with “deep sadness".
Christie forged “deep connections” with the Tasman and Highlanders rugby sides as a player and a coach, NZR said.
"Any time the rugby community loses a member, it is felt deeply. Shane’s passion for the game will be remembered always.
“Our thoughts are with Shane’s whānau, friends, former team-mates, and community at this incredibly difficult time.”
Tasman Rugby chief executive Steve Mitchell told the Marlborough App Christie’s death came as a shock.
"I'm shocked and really sad. My concerns are for his family. I'm gutted,’’ he said
Christie was described as a "true legend'' of the province by Tasman Rugby.
"A proud Tassy man, Shane will be dearly missed by his team-mates, colleagues, and the wider rugby whānau," the union said on social media.
Where to get help
Need to talk? 1737, free 24/7 phone and text number
Healthline: 0800 611-116
Lifeline Aotearoa: 0800 543-354
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828-865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Samaritans: 0800 726-666
Alcohol Drug Helpline: 0800 787-797
General mental health inquiries: 0800 443-366
The Depression Helpline: 0800 111-757
- Allied Media
