Ian Neven MacEwan, widely known as Nev MacEwan, a revered figure in New Zealand rugby and a man whose life journey inspired many beyond the sports field, passed away on March 11, 2026, in Palmerston North, at the age of 91. Born on May 1, 1934, in Auckland, New Zealand, MacEwan, All Black #578, left an indelible mark on the sport, particularly as a formidable lock and number eight for both the Wellington provincial team and the iconic All Blacks. His career spanned a significant era of rugby, earning him respect for his skill and physical presence on the field.

MacEwan's journey in rugby began at Nelson College, where he played for the 1st XV in 1951 and 1952, initially encouraged by his brother Pat after starting his sporting life as a sprinter and swimmer. A local radio commentator, Alan Patterson, notably advised him to focus on his natural ability to jump in the lineouts, a skill he perfected through dedicated practice. He later moved to Wellington in 1953 to pursue teacher training, quickly establishing himself in the provincial rugby scene. From 1954 to 1967, he proudly represented Wellington in 133 games, becoming a stalwart of the team and earning the designation 'Wellington Lion #1015'. During his time with Wellington, he was part of the team that won the Ranfurly Shield in 1956 and achieved notable victories against the touring Springboks in 1965 and the British & Irish Lions in 1966.

His exceptional talent led to his debut for the All Blacks in 1956. Over his international career, which concluded in 1962, MacEwan played 52 matches for the national side, including 20 Test matches. He was particularly renowned for forming an effective and powerful locking partnership with the legendary Colin Meads, a pairing that became a cornerstone of the All Blacks' success during that period. MacEwan also captained the All Blacks in three tour matches: against Northern Transvaal and Eastern Province in 1960, and Newcastle in 1962. Uniquely, he holds the distinction of being the only All Black forward to be named in the starting test XV in three different positions – No. 8, lock, and prop.

Beyond his international appearances, MacEwan also demonstrated strong leadership at the club level, notably captaining his club, Athletic, to a Jubilee Cup victory in 1965. His imposing stature, standing at 192 cm and weighing 105 kg, made him a dominant force in the lineouts and scrums, a characteristic that defined his playing style. Following his distinguished rugby career, MacEwan faced significant personal challenges. His struggles with alcoholism began during the 1960 All Blacks tour of South Africa, and he was dropped from the All Blacks in 1962, leading to Colin and Stan Meads forming the locking partnership. These challenges culminated in a theft conviction and a suicide attempt in 1979.

His journey of recovery and redemption was chronicled in his candid 2019 autobiography, "When the Crowd Stops Roaring," which offered a raw and honest account of his struggles and eventual triumph through faith and community support. The book and subsequent media attention highlighted his impact as a figure who openly discussed his struggles, serving as an inspiration beyond the rugby field. A poignant moment in his life was the return of his jersey from the fourth test in South Africa in 1960, organized by his son Angus in 2005, a story he affectionately called the 'prodigal jersey'.

In a testament to his resilient spirit and desire to help others, MacEwan dedicated a significant part of his later life to service. He served as a Palmerston North City Councillor and held various other occupations including shipping agent, travel agent, public relations officer for Palmerston North, celebrant, and B&B owner. From 1989 to 2005, he served as a prison chaplain, primarily at Palmerston North prison and Linton Prison, where he developed a volunteer network to support chaplaincy work and encourage positive changes in inmates' lives. He was also the Executive Director for Prison Fellowship of New Zealand. Within his family, he was remembered for his 'height advantage over everyone; the title of grandmaster card player; and undefeated arm-wrestling champion'.

MacEwan is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jeanette, their four children, 12 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Tributes poured in from across New Zealand, with the Wellington Rugby Football Union expressing sadness at the passing of 'Wellington Lion #1015' and Club Rugby publishing an article highlighting his significant contributions. The New Zealand Herald published an obituary with numerous condolences, remembering him as a loving husband, father, uncle, mentor, colleague, and friend. Paul Blumsky and Grant and Barbara Hastelow were among those who offered condolences, recalling his gentle giant demeanor, heart of gold, and involvement in prison ministry. His life story, marked by both sporting glory and profound personal challenges, stands as an inspiring narrative of perseverance and redemption.