All Blacks greats gather to honour Sir Brian Lochore

Sir Brian Lochore has been remembered as not only a giant of New Zealand Rugby, but also as someone who cared deeply about the team, and the legacy he would leave.

Thousands poured into the Memorial Park in Masteron on Thursday to farewell Sir Brian after he lost his battle with cancer.

For a man that left as big a mark on rugby as he did, it was only fitting to have the game's biggest names in his hometown to farewell him. 

Though it's clear Sir Brian was so much more than a giant of the black jersey.

"We put a lot of emphasis on the history and the legacy," NZ legend Dan Carter told Newshub. "And legends like BJ and a lot of ex players here that you've seen today, it does it motivate you to inspire people and motivate people."

When Sir Michael Jones was selected for the All Blacks in 1987, he admits meeting Sir Brian was overwhelming, though he would quickly see the influence he would have in shaping his 11-year career.

"You really knew that he cared about you and that he valued you and," said Sir Michael. "He saw my potential and knew how to get the best out of me."

Sir Brian Lochore's impact on the black jersey is set to be felt for generations to come.

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Newshub.