Collins played many games for Wellington and his beloved Hurricanes at the ground.
Aisle six in Westpac Stadium had a blue tinge - Collins always tried to squeeze in a game in the blue and white jersey of the Norths club whenever he could - and a giant Hurricanes No 6 replica jersey was spread out on the field before kick-off in tribute.
A handful of current Hurricanes played with Collins but many in this vintage grew up idolising a player who represented the side during some of their best years.
It was during those glory days - think 2000-2009 - when Westpac Stadium used to come alive with big crowds flocking to see what the Hurricanes would serve up next.
They had thrilling players like Tana Umaga, Christian Cullen and Collins in their mix but the new breed have Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett and Nehe Milner-Skudder and 33,460 people were in attendance tonight.
"It is particularly pleasing to run out to that sort of crowd," Hurricanes skipper Conrad Smith said.