Richie was named Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year during a star-studded gala in Auckland last night, beating out fellow candidates Louise Nicholas and Rob Fenwick.
His fiancée, Black Sticks beauty Gemma Flynn, was there to see him take the stage, and she later shared an Instagram photo of the pair all dressed up for the special night.
“What an amazing night at the New Zealander of the year awards with so many inspirational people,” she captioned the shot.
“A special congratulations to this man for all that he does and all that he is.”
Photo: Instagram
Chief judge Cameron Bennett said that while the panel’s decision was difficult, they felt that Richie’s “contribution to New Zealand on and off the rugby field was simply extraordinary”.
“As a rugby player Richie always led by example and it’s a special quality he has translated to his charitable work outside the game. His courage, leadership and humility is an inspiration to legions of Kiwi kids.
“Richie is the genuine article and a truly worthy recipient of the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year award,” Mr Bennett told Stuff.
For his part, Richie said he was “blown away” by the honour during an interview with Newstalk ZB today.
“It truly does blow your away these sorts of things, it’s pretty special to be a Kiwi when you see what everyone does and to be a part of that,” he said.
The title caps off a year of amazing achievements for the former All Black captain, not the least of which was leading the boys in black to victory for the second year in a row in the 2015 World Cup Final.
Richie was also appointed to the prestigious Order of New Zealand (ONZ) in the most recent round of New Year’s honours, and in early January, he and Gemma announced their engagement on Facebook.
