18 November 2024 

New Zealand Rugby League mourns the passing of Dennis Key who played one Test in 1969 against the Australian tourists.  

Having debuted for New Zealand Māori in 1967, Key broke into the Auckland team the following season before being picked on the wing for the series opener against Australia the following year.  

Whilst another Test opportunity eluded him, Key, hailing from Point Chevalier, was a valued member of the club before later switching to Glenora when he moved into the halves. He was also a long-standing member of the New Zealand Māori team. 

As part of the New Zealand Māori team Key scored five tries and was named player of the 1975 Pacific Cup, and was part of the team that retained the Cup two years later. He played his last match for the team against France in 1981, 14 years after first representing.  

New Zealand Rugby League extends its deepest condolences to Dennis Key’s family and friends.