The death of beloved rugby star Sean Wainui is being investigated as a suspected suicide, the coroner has confirmed.
The Chiefs and Māori All Blacks winger was killed in the Bay of Plenty area last Monday morning.
Wainui was laid to rest on Sunday in Gisborne, while the All Blacks and NPC sides paid tribute to the 25-year-old, before their games on the weekend.
Coroner Louella Dunn has confirmed in a statement, his death "is being treated as a suspected suicide".
All other details surrounding Wainui's death have been suppressed by the coroner.
The news comes hours after Wainui's widow, Paige, posted a tribute to her husband on social media, revealing a tā moko to honour Sean.
"I don't have the words right now or could begin to describe the feeling of losing you, baby, all I know is I don't wish this on anyone," Paige Wainui writes.
"I'm in absolute pieces and in so much pain, knowing my whole other half to me has left this earth.
"But I will forever celebrate you, my love, for being the most amazing and incredible husband & father you were, and the special years we got to spend together on this earth."
Tributes to Wainui flowed over the last weekend, with the Taranaki and Manawatū NPC teams performing a haka in his honour, while USA Eagles also paid their own respects before their test against the All Blacks at Washington DC.
A moment’s silence was observed before every NPC match played last weekend, with the exception of Bay of Plenty v Northland, which was postponed to avoid clashing with Wainui's tangihanga on Sunday.
Wainui is survived by wife Paige and their children, Kawariki and Arahia.
Wainui's Chiefs Super Rugby side have also set up a Givealittle page to raise funds for his family, with donations so far totalling more than $270,000.
Where to find help and support:
- Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
- Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
- Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
- What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
- Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
