Remembering Doc Mayhew
9 April 2025
New Zealand Rugby is mourning the loss of Dr John Mayhew (ONZM), known affectionally as “Doc”.
Mayhew was widely regarded as one of the country’s leading sports medicine experts, and had a long association with rugby. He served as the All Blacks Team Doctor from 1988-2004, providing exceptional care for an entire generation of players in the black jersey.
He continued to contribute to the game, from the grassroots to the elite level, across North Harbour Rugby and the Blues. He was passionate about the health and wellbeing benefits of rugby, and as a Board director of the New Zealand Rugby Foundation, Mayhew was provided leadership and advocated for a safe game at all levels. His expertise has informed many player welfare initiatives, including NZR’s recent Brain Health and Concussion research.
NZR CEO Mark Robinson said:
“Doc was a deeply respected figure in our game and his legacy will endure through the positive changes he championed. As All Blacks team doctor for 16 years, he was trusted for his medical expertise and his unwavering care for the people around him.
“Beyond his time with the All Blacks, he continued to shape our game through his work in advancing research into brain health and concussion – helping us all understand more and do better when it comes to player welfare.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the wider medical and rugby communities during this very sad time.”
All Blacks coach Scott Robertson said:
"Doc has given so much to the All Blacks and to sports medicine more widely, both through his expertise and because of the way he cared for the people and teams he worked with. During my time in the All Blacks he was more than our team doctor - he was a trusted confidant and friend to all, and someone who always put the person before the player.
He was the ultimate combination of a great man and an excellent sports doctor. My thoughts are with his family at this immensely sad time. Rest in peace, Doc."
Our sympathies are with Doc’s family and friends, and those who knew him across the game, especially in his home region of North Harbour.
