09-05-2025
Obituary: John Mayhew, doctor
All Black Doctor John Mayhew.
Doctors who work with sports teams are seldom well known, but Dr John Mayhew (ONZM) was an exception. Both as the All Blacks team medic for almost two decades and later as doctor for the Warriors, he became a familiar face standing alongside stricken sports stars. Dr Mayhew served as the All Blacks' team doctor from 1988-2004, attending 131 tests and more than 200 matches, including four World Cup campaigns. His most high-profile player who required medical advice was the late Jonah Lomu. The winger was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome in 1995 and Dr Mayhew was one of the few people aware of Lomu's chronic health issues from the very start. Dr Mayhew became a close family friend and served as a pallbearer at Lomu's funeral in 2015. Dr Mayhew was involved in several player welfare initiatives, including New Zealand Rugby's recent Brain Health and Concussion research project. He died on April 9, aged 69. — APL/agencies
