Family and rugby mates mourn Jarrad

Teammates described Jarrad Blackler as 'the ultimate rugby player' and he was also an enthusiastic guitarist.

Victim of Canterbury road crash leaves a hole in many hearts.

The family of a keen rugby player who died yesterday, several days after a crash near Kurow in Canterbury, say he had made many plans for the future with them.

Jarrad Ethan Blackler, 23, from Waitaki, was one of six people thrown from the vehicle they were travelling in on the Hakataramea Valley Road at 12.15am on Sunday.

His family said that Mr Blackler loved the hills. He had been a shepherd at Haldon Station for five years and had recently returned to his family's farm.

"His mum and dad were loving having Jarrad home and they had made many plans for the future," the family said.

Mr Blackler loved rugby, jet-boating and playing the guitar.

His family said Mr Blackler had taught himself to play the guitar and would play music for his family and friends.

"We loved nothing more than when Jarrad joined his brothers and sister for a jam session," the family said.

"We would like to thank all those involved with Jarrad's care, both at the scene and in hospital, and the ongoing support from family, friends and teammates.

"Our thoughts are also with the other people involved in the crash and their families."

Kurow Rugby Club said Mr Blackler was "the ultimate rugby player" and would never be forgotten.

"He always did everything with a smile on his face and big, bright eyes," the club spokesman said.

"To say he will be missed is a massive understatement. Words cannot express how the team and our supporters are feeling.

"We want his family to know Kurow RFC and Jarrad's teammates will give them all the hugs and support they need.

"Jarrad will never be forgotten and his family will always be part of our team."

Mr Blackler was travelling with a group of Kurow RFC teammates and supporters to visit friends at the time of the crash.

The 39-year-old man who was driving was in a serious but stable condition in Dunedin Hospital last night. A 25-year-old man who was a passenger was in a critical condition in Christchurch Hospital.

A man and a woman, both passengers aged 22, were being treated for moderate injuries in Christchurch Hospital and Timaru Hospital respectively.

A 38-year-old man who was also a passenger was discharged from hospital and is recovering at home.

Mr Blackler will be farewelled at a private ceremony on Saturday.