New Zealand Rugby board chair David Kirk has described former All Black captain Stu Wilson as one of the sport's most memorable characters

Wilson - who played 85 times for the All Blacks - including 34 tests - died in Tauranga yesterday, aged 70.

Kirk says his former teammate was one of the finest wings to have played the game, and one of rugby's most memorable characters.

Kirk adds that while Wilson took a light-hearted approach to life - he was deeply passionate and serious about representing his country.

NZR boss Mark Robinson says Wilson's flair and joy for the game inspired a generation.