Affectionately known as “Super Sid,” Going played in 29 international matches and participated in 57 games for New Zealand between 1967 and 1977. He captained the team five times and scored 10 tries in Test matches. Going also played in 110 matches for North Auckland, now known as Northland. The provincial union announced his passing on Friday via social media.

“It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of our province’s Sid Going,” said the Northland Rugby Union via X, formerly known as Twitter. “Together, from Te Kao to Mahurangi, from our North Auckland days and across the country, we will respectfully mourn his passing, but also remember all that he has given to our game of rugby.”

New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson, said “It’s incredibly sad to hear of Sid’s passing. He was a dynamic player and one of the greatest halfbacks in All Blacks history. He had an immense pride in wearing the All Blacks jersey and representing New Zealand Maori, something which greatly endeared him to fans. We send our condolences and aroha to his family and loved ones.”

Going was considered one of the all-time greats of New Zealand rugby. He earned widespread respect globally and built a reputation as a true match-winner. He enjoyed immense popularity worldwide and played the game in an entertaining manner, showcasing the running style of rugby for which New Zealand is renowned today.

The Going name became legendary in Northland rugby history thanks to the Ranfurly Shield-winning performances of Sid and his brothers, Ken and Brian, during the 1970s. Sid played 43 times for the province, and Ken also achieved All Black status in 1974.

“Sid was a special player and man in our game,” said All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson. “He lit up the field with his ability and energy. He lit up people’s hearts up off it – that was his trademark.”

In addition to his accomplishments at the provincial and international levels, Going represented the New Zealand Maori team for 12 years and was awarded the Tom French Cup three times. Going retired from first-class rugby in 1978 and went on to coach Northland from 1993 to 1996.