AUCKLAND, New Zealand — Hewitt, who passed on at age 55 after battling motor neuron disease, was a notable role model for the youth. He is renowned for his memorable haka standoff with England’s Richard Cockerill.
In a statement released by his family, the player was hailed for his contribution to society: “Although rugby dominated his early life, he established a thriving human relations consultancy after retirement, and his services were much in demand both nationally and internationally,” read the statement.
Following his recent passing, Mark Robinson, the chief executive of New Zealand Rugby, praised Hewitt’s impact on the sport, stating, “I played against Norm as a young player, and he was tough on the field but always generous with his time off it.” “ Our condolences are with Norm’s family and loved ones during this difficult period.” Hewitt was a member of the All Blacks from 1993 to 1999 and was married to Arlene Thomas, a former world aerobic champion who now leads group fitness sessions at Jenkins Gym in Wellington.
Among his career achievements, Hewitt was recognized as the 1996 NPC Second Division Player of the Year and missed only a single match in the first five years of Super 12. Despite not scoring in test matches, Hewitt bagged seven tries for the All Blacks and never tasted defeat in a test match. He contributed to eight All Blacks test victories and a draw against England, prominently representing Hawke’s Bay and Wellington.
After a drunken incident in 1998, Hewitt publicly apologized and subsequently became a vocal advocate for adjusting drinking behaviors. In 2000, he led Wellington to the NPC title against Canterbury. In 2018, Hewitt was featured in the documentary “Making Good Men,” which sheds light on the connection between Hewitt and his former schoolmate Manu Bennett.
At the club level, he played for Napier Tech Old Boys, Taradale, Albion, and Wellington. In 2006, Hewitt’s brother Rob, a Navy diver, was rescued after surviving four days and three nights adrift off the coast of Porirua with a broken wrist. He captained New Zealand A and New Zealand Maori, as well as the Hurricanes. New Zealand Rugby Players’ Association CEO Rob Nichol expressed his condolences to Arlene and her family, saying “Rest in peace and love our friend.”
Edited by Judy J. Rotich and Newsdesk Manager
