One-in-ten-million cancer claims young life

21-year-old Mereana Muriwai passed away on Monday, after fighting Small Cell Carcinoma of the Ovary, Hypercalcaemic Type. She was diagnosed with cancer in late 2024. 

Mereana and Nui Muriwai got married earlier this month.

Nui shared a photo of their wedding to Instagram, writing under the post, “A moment in time I'll never forget”. 

Throughout her illness, she documented her journey to her seven-thousand Instagram followers, and the Hurricanes rallied around the couple, helping raise funds for her treatment.

The Wellington-based super rugby team helped Muriwai raise over $80,000 towards treatment.

Team mates, supporters and members of the rugby community showed an incredible amount of aroha, reflecting the impact the young couple had on so many. 

This was Muriwai's last post to social media.

Muriwai leaves behind her husband, Nui, along with her friends and whānau.

A livestream for her tangi began at 11 o’clock this morning in Hamilton, New Zealand. 

Comments were posted on the funeral service page in memory of Mereana.