Ex-All Black dies in boating accident

Former All Black Paul Sapsford has died in a jet-boating accident in the Mackenzie Country.

Sapsford, 60, a dentist, died as a result of injuries received in the Monday afternoon accident on Lake Ohau, Senior Constable Les Andrews told the Otago Daily Times.

An autopsy had been conducted and Sapsford's death referred to the coroner.

Sapsford, a prop who played seven games for the All Blacks on the 1976 tour to Argentina, also played for New Zealand Universities from 1973-76.

He played 86 games for Otago from 1973-1982.

Otago Rugby Football Union president and Taieri Rugby Football Club life member John Kelly said he was "a delightful character".

"He was a happy character who enjoyed his rugby and being involved with rugby people," he told the newspaper.

- NZPA