"He was one of those one in a million types of people."
The club is rallying around to grieve a "great man, a great leader, father, husband, family man, and somebody we're going to miss dearly", Mr Auimatagi said.
Mr Tuli, who played prop and second row, debuted for the Keas in 1994.
He was part of the Linwood grand final winning teams of 2005 and 2008, and was named premier player of the year three times.
Mr Auimatagi said that Mr Tuli had just told teammates that this weekend's landmark 300th game against cross-town rivals Papanui Tigers would be his last for the club.
"The boys are struggling eh," he said today.
"Teni gave a lot more than what we ever gave him. He was the heart and soul of our league community.
"We're just sticking tight, looking after one another at this time, and making sure we look after Teni's family as well."
St John were called to Linwood's training ground shortly after 6.30pm on Tuesday night.
Mr Tuli, despite the efforts of coaching staff to revive him, died at the scene.
Canterbury Rugby League chief executive Terry Williamson said Mr Tuli's death had left the local league community in shock.
"We're supposed to be celebrating someone's achievement, not his life," he said.
"He would've put his heart and soul into this game and he would've added a lot to the game, post his playing days I believe."
Mr Williamson could not recall any other players achieving as many club caps as Mr Tuli had.
He likened it to Richie McCaw captaining the All Blacks for 100 games.
"It's pretty unprecedented."
Last month, Mr Tuli said in an article published by Canterbury Rugby League that he was unaware he was approaching the 300-games mark.
"I didn't even know I was getting up there until last year when Andrew (Auimatagi), my coach, told me," Mr Tuli said.
"But I'm quite happy about it now, it's given me a target to finish off on as well," he added.
He spoke about his motivations for continuing to play the game into his 40s.
"I just enjoy being around the boys, the camaraderie, and the contact - I've been in the sport a wee while now, so if I wasn't playing I think I'd be a bit lost."
The article also highlighted Mr Tuli's legendary modesty when asked about his leadership role.
"Just someone that they can look up to. To help them - not just in footy, anything that they need or want advice for, I'm there," Mr Tuli said.
"In terms of footy, (I'm) just someone who likes to lead by example. When things get tough, putting your hand up to have that first run."
