A haka tribute was paid to All Black, Poverty Bay and Ngatapa legend Ian Kirkpatrick after the Heartland Championship rugby game at Paddy’s Park at Patutahi on Saturday afternoon.
Kirky has spent endless hours behind the scenes supporting co-founder Krissy Mackintosh and the #Hear4U movement, which is dedicated to suicide prevention and breaking the stigma around men’s mental health.
“As a result, our charity has been able to rise above Cyclone Gabrielle and provide innovative healing pathways for those battling behind closed doors — particularly in the rural sector,” Krissy said.
“Thank you Kirky. You are a hero of our time and we will continue to speak up with the highest amount of gratitude and mana for all that you have done.”
The haka was performed by the Poverty Bay and South Canterbury sides. Both teams are in Heartland semifinal action tomorrow. South Canterbury are hosting Ngāti Porou East Coast in a Meads Cup (top four) semifinal at Pleasant Point Rugby Football Club, near Timaru.
