Figures from both sides of the 1981 Springboks tour gathered last night at the scene of one of the tour's most infamous events to pay tribute to Nelson Mandela.
About 200 people were at a remembrance service at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton, including former anti-riot police officer and MP Ross Meurant, who spoke of his admiration for Mandela.
At the time of the tour, Mr Meurant was second-in-command of the Red Squad riot-control group, while John Minto - who organised last night's service - was instrumental in organising opposition to the tour.
On July 25, 1981, about 350 Minto-led protesters invaded the pitch of Waikato Stadium - then called Rugby Park - and forced the cancellation of a game between Waikato and the touring side.
Last night, Mr Meurant told the crowd, who had permission to be on the playing field for the service, that Mandela had been an "outstanding statesman" and "one of the most precious and remarkable gifts ever bestowed to mankind".