Tender side to the fore as AB lock ties the knot

The couple married at a vineyard owned by Retallick's uncle. Photo / Stephanie Creagh

Powerhouse All Black lock Brodie Retallick showed his softer side when he wed sweetheart Niki Thompson this month.

The couple tied the knot on January 9 at Junction Wines, a Waipukurau vineyard owned by Retallick's uncle, former All Black John Ashworth.

Thompson, a Hastings nurse, wore a lace-trimmed sleeveless gown in traditional white. The couple worked hard to focus on the big picture amid the excitement of their special day, Thompson said.

"Throughout it all, we tried to focus on what the important things were about the day - and for us, it was getting married."

Retallick spoke lovingly of his bride in front of family and friends.

"To my wife, Niki, today you looked absolutely beautiful. I had the biggest smile on my face as you came up the aisle and I look forward to sharing a life of happiness and joy with you. I love you."

The nuptials follow an outstanding year for 23-year-old Retallick. He was named IRB world player of the year in November and New Zealand player of the year the following month.

Last week fellow All Black star Ben Smith married his long-standing girlfriend, triathlete and basketballer Katie Menzies.

See more photos of Brodie Retallick's wedding in the latest New Idea, out today.