Highlanders and All Blacks halfback Aaron Smith has been brought to tears by teammates after they performed a special haka to acknowledge his long service to the club.
With his 154th appearance for the club, Smith became its most-capped player ever - surpassing fellow All Black Ben Smith and while the match result left a lot to be desired - the side went down 30-19 to the Hurricanes - Smith and the side were no doubt buoyed by the post-match celebration.
After a presentation of gifts, including a traditional Scottish sword, and flowers, Smith and his new wife Teagan Voykovich embraced as the Highlanders squad performed a passionate haka just metres away.
Led by his co-captain Ash Dixon, the haka left Smith with tears streaming down his face under the enclosed roof of Forsyth Barr Stadium.