Former All Blacks lock

Former All Black lock Andy Haden has died aged 69

Former All Blacks coach John Hart confirmed the death.

Hart said Haden was surrounded by his family when he died at 7am on Wednesday morning.

"It's tragic for his family and everyone in the game," Hart said.

Born in Whanganui, Haden played a total of 117 matches, including 41 tests, for the All Blacks over 13 years from 1972.

He debuted against the 1977 Lions, a series made more tense by the fact the previous tour had seen the All Blacks beaten for the first time by the Lions.