'He had a dream to help underprivileged children'

Tributes have poured in for Jonah Lomu at a memorial service held at Auckland's Eden Park.

Former All Blacks coach John Hart said: "You were a freak on the field and a gentle, caring giant off it."

He said Jonah and his wife Nadine had a dream to start a charity to assist underprivileged children.

Wesley College mentor Chris Grinter reflected on Jonah Lomu's schooldays.

"That potential was demonstrated in his very first weeks in the schools in 1989 during his very first weeks in the school during the schools junior athletic championships Jonah won 10 of the 13 individual athletic events."

IRB boss Bernard Lapasset explained: "He was a giant man, and he leaves a giant space in world rugby.

"He will forever be a big part of rugby's story."

"He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered. His contribution to rugby cannot be overstated."

"Thank you for all, Jonah."

MC John Campbell shared a special moment with Lomu's children: "Thank you for sharing your father with us one last time... These [crowd in attendance] are just some of the people who loved your dad. That is how special he was."