He also took part in the 1982 New Zealand M\u0101ori rugby union tour of Wales and Spain.<\/p>\n
Counties held a moment\u2019s silence for Kururangi and former rugby journalist Phil Gifford, before their Ranfurly Shield defence against Hawke\u2019s Bay on Saturday. They also wore black armbands.<\/p>\n
Robert Kururangi, then aged 66 years in 2023. Photo \/ File<\/p>\n
The team went on to defend the Log of Wood 12-7 to lock it away for the summer, which was made more special with many Steelers alumni in attendance.<\/p>\n
In a social media post, Counties Manukau Rugby described Kururangi as a respected member of their rugby wh\u0101nau.<\/p>\n
\u201cRobert\u2019s contribution to the Red, White and Black hoops will never be forgotten,\u201d the post read.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur thoughts are with his wh\u0101nau, friends and teammates during this difficult time.\u201d<\/p>\n
Originally from the East Coast, Kururangi attended Gisborne Boys\u2019 High School where he played two years of First XV rugby, while representing the North Island at under-16 and under-18 levels.<\/p>\n
He moved north and played club rugby for Ardmore before being selected for Counties.<\/p>\n
He was also a serviceman in the New Zealand Army.<\/p>\n
In 2023, Kururangi stood trial in the Manukau District Court for seven alleged historic charges of sexually violating and indecently assaulting his daughter when she was between 5 and 8 years old.<\/p>\n