Former Flying Fijian prop and captain Joeli Veitayaki , affectionately known as Big Joe, has passed away unexpectedly at the age of 58. The news was confirmed by his daughter, Talei Veitayaki, who described the family’s heartbreak and thanked the public for their support during this difficult time.
“Joeli’s passing has come as a great shock to our family and we are taking time to come together,” Talei wrote on social media. “A gentle giant with a big heart. He was loved by many and had a huge impact on his community.” She added that funeral arrangements will be announced once finalised.
Born on the island of Matuku in Lau, Veitayaki’s journey from his island roots to becoming one of Fiji’s most respected rugby figures was one of dedication, humility, and pride. A true ambassador of Fijian rugby, he earned 49 international caps for Fiji between 1994 and 2003, scoring 15 points over the course of his career.
Veitayaki made his international debut on June 4, 1994, against the New Zealand Māori All Blacks in Christchurch. Known for his strength and technical mastery as a prop, he represented Fiji at both the 1999 and 2003 Rugby World Cups, embodying the fierce yet spirited play that defined Fijian rugby in that era.
Legacy across clubs and generations
Beyond his national career, Veitayaki made a mark in both Super Rugby and European competition. He played 11 games for the Chiefs in the inaugural 1996 Super Rugby season, before joining the Auckland Blues two years later, featuring in two matches. Later, he continued his professional journey abroad with Ulster Rugby in Ireland, where he played from 2001 to 2003.
In New Zealand, he became a beloved figure for Northland Rugby , making 35 appearances for the province. The club paid a heartfelt tribute to him on social media, writing:
“Joeli was a true powerhouse – both in presence and in spirit. During his time in the Cambridge Blue, he brought pride, mana, and warmth to everyone around him. He will be remembered not just as a formidable front-rower, but as a teammate, mentor, and friend whose impact reached far beyond the game. Our thoughts and aroha are with Joeli’s whānau, friends, and all who had the privilege of sharing the field or the sideline with him.”
Tributes have since poured in from across the rugby community, with teammates, fans, and clubs recalling Veitayaki’s unmatched presence on the field and his kindness off it. Known for his humility, leadership, and deep sense of camaraderie, he was widely regarded as a “gentle giant” — a man whose influence extended well beyond rugby.
Veitayaki’s legacy continues through his son, Haereiti Hetet , a Swire Shipping Fijian Drua prop and current FIJI Water Flying Fijian squad member, who was recently named in Fiji’s end-of-year tour lineup.
As the rugby world remembers a man who embodied the spirit of the game both on and off the field, Veitayaki leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and lasting inspiration. His passing marks not only the loss of a great athlete but also of a beloved father, mentor, and community figure whose impact will endure across generations.
“Joeli’s passing has come as a great shock to our family and we are taking time to come together,” Talei wrote on social media. “A gentle giant with a big heart. He was loved by many and had a huge impact on his community.” She added that funeral arrangements will be announced once finalised.
Born on the island of Matuku in Lau, Veitayaki’s journey from his island roots to becoming one of Fiji’s most respected rugby figures was one of dedication, humility, and pride. A true ambassador of Fijian rugby, he earned 49 international caps for Fiji between 1994 and 2003, scoring 15 points over the course of his career.
Veitayaki made his international debut on June 4, 1994, against the New Zealand Māori All Blacks in Christchurch. Known for his strength and technical mastery as a prop, he represented Fiji at both the 1999 and 2003 Rugby World Cups, embodying the fierce yet spirited play that defined Fijian rugby in that era.
Legacy across clubs and generations
Beyond his national career, Veitayaki made a mark in both Super Rugby and European competition. He played 11 games for the Chiefs in the inaugural 1996 Super Rugby season, before joining the Auckland Blues two years later, featuring in two matches. Later, he continued his professional journey abroad with Ulster Rugby in Ireland, where he played from 2001 to 2003.
In New Zealand, he became a beloved figure for Northland Rugby , making 35 appearances for the province. The club paid a heartfelt tribute to him on social media, writing:
“Joeli was a true powerhouse – both in presence and in spirit. During his time in the Cambridge Blue, he brought pride, mana, and warmth to everyone around him. He will be remembered not just as a formidable front-rower, but as a teammate, mentor, and friend whose impact reached far beyond the game. Our thoughts and aroha are with Joeli’s whānau, friends, and all who had the privilege of sharing the field or the sideline with him.”
Tributes have since poured in from across the rugby community, with teammates, fans, and clubs recalling Veitayaki’s unmatched presence on the field and his kindness off it. Known for his humility, leadership, and deep sense of camaraderie, he was widely regarded as a “gentle giant” — a man whose influence extended well beyond rugby.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DQGFguagZTw/ https://www.instagram.com/p/DQGFguagZTw/
Veitayaki’s legacy continues through his son, Haereiti Hetet , a Swire Shipping Fijian Drua prop and current FIJI Water Flying Fijian squad member, who was recently named in Fiji’s end-of-year tour lineup.
As the rugby world remembers a man who embodied the spirit of the game both on and off the field, Veitayaki leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and lasting inspiration. His passing marks not only the loss of a great athlete but also of a beloved father, mentor, and community figure whose impact will endure across generations.
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