Former Fiji captain, 'Big Joe' Veitayaki, dies aged 58

NEWS: Fiji rugby is mourning after the unexpected death of former Flying Fijians captain and Super Rugby prop Joe Veitayaki.

Veitayaki played 49 games for Fiji, leading the side on a handful of occasions, and featured in the 1999 and 2003 Rugby World Cup squads.

The powerhouse prop made his international debut against the Māori All Blacks in Christchurch in 1994.

Veitayaki was a part of the Fijian side that defeated Scotland 51-26 in Suva in 1998, scoring a try in that game. He faced the All Blacks on one occasion in 1997.

His son Haereiti Hetet was recently named in the extended Fijian squad for their 2025 Northern Tour, where they will face England, France, and Spain next month.

The 58-year-old, known affectionately as “Big Joe”, was a regular in New Zealand, making 35 appearances for Northland in the National Provincial Championship and 64 for King Country in the Heartland Championship.

He also played 11 times for the Chiefs in the inaugural season of Super Rugby in 1996 and twice for the Blues in 1998.

In a post to social media, a family member said it was with “deep sadness” that she shared the unexpected passing of Veitayaki.

“Joeli’s passing has come as a great shock to our family, and we are taking time to come together. A gentle giant with a big heart. He was loved by many and had a huge impact on his community,” the tribute read.

“We deeply appreciate all your love, prayers, and support during this difficult time … We love you dad.”

The Northland Rugby Union Facebook page also paid tribute to Veitayaki.

“Northland Rugby Union joins the wider rugby community in mourning the passing of former Taniwha #675 prop Joeli Veitayaki,” it posted.