Sunday's NPC clash between Bay of Plenty and Northland has been postponed, with both sides agreeing not to play at the same time of Sean Wainui's tangi.
Former Chiefs, Crusaders, Māori All Blacks, Bay of Plenty and Taranaki utility back Wainui was killed in a car accident on Monday morning, aged 25.
As a result, Sunday's clash between the Steamers and the Taniwha will be moved to another date, with both unions' players agreeing it "did not feel appropriate" to play on the same day that Wainui will be farewelled by his whānau.
The match will be rescheduled and played at a later date.
While no other matches in this weekend's round of NPC and Heartland Championship fixtures have been postponed, the New Zealand Rugby community will come together in remembrance of Wainui.
All players, coaches and match officials will wear black armbands, with a minute's silence to be observed prior to kick-off for every match.
In a release from Bay of Plenty Rugby Union, Wainui's whānau have also thanked the public for their support during their time of grieving.
"The beautiful tributes that have come from those who loved him all across the world means a lot to us all," the Wainui whānau says.
"We understand there are many hurting right now and wanting to hear from the whānau, but please respect that we have just lost our baby brother, a son, a husband and a father and our focus right now is healing and laying my brother to rest.
"Thank you all again for respecting the whānau's wishes."
Wainui is survived by wife Paige, and children Kawariki and Arahia.
A Givealittle page has been set up by the Chiefs for the Wainui whānau, raising over $200,000 since Wednesday.
