Former All Blacks captain Andy Haden has died aged 69, after a long battle with cancer.

The former lock, who played 117 matches and 41 tests for the All Blacks between 1972 and 1985, is considered one of the greatest All Blacks of all time.

There will be a funeral service for Haden at Eden Park on Monday.

Former All Blacks coach John Hart told Heather du Plessis-Allan they go back a long time.

"We've been mates for nearly 40 years.

"We started when I was coaching Auckland he was captain of the Auckland team.

"He's one of the greats of the game."

Mr Hart says Haden, while known for speaking his mind, was a pleasure to coach.

"He's fantastic, so professional, he was ahead of his time.

"Yes he had some controversies in his life because he was different, he challenged the establishment, he did a lot to improve the positioning of players.

"If he thought things were unfair he stood up."

Mr Hart adds Mr Haden and his wife played a huge role in bringing women into the game.women's rugby.