The Queen has written to Prime Minister John Key, asking him to send a message to Nadene Lomu and family to say how much she mourns their loss.
Her Majesty met Jonah Lomu in 2002, when the All Blacks attended afternoon tea at Buckingham Palace.
Lomu family spokesman and former All Blacks coach John Hart revealed details of the monarch’s letter in a press conference today.
He said that Lomu’s passing happened suddenly and has “caught us all a little short”.
Nadene Lomu has asked to pass on her sincere thanks from the family for the wonderful tributes and support they’ve received from around the world. Hart said she is struggling to come to terms with the passing of her husband.
There will be a public memorial service for Lomu, followed by a private church service and burial.
