The former New Zealand winger, the star of the 1995 World Cup, was 40.

The All Blacks team doctor said it was an unexpected death, according to a report from New Zealand television station 3News.

Lomu played 63 Tests for the All Blacks in a glittering career cut short by kidney disease.

NZR chief executive Steve Tew: "We're all shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden death of Jonah Lomu. 

"We're lost for words and our heartfelt sympathies go out to Jonah's family. Jonah was a legend of our game and loved by his many fans both here and around the world."

Lomu battled kidney disorders since the end of 1995 when he was diagnosed with nephritic syndrome. He had a kidney transplant in 2004.

He had health setbacks since then and had been receiving dialysis treatments during his recent visit to Britain where he was involved in heavy promotional work during the Rugby World Cup.

Lomu and his family had transferred to Dubai where they were holidaying on their way back to New Zealand. He tweeted from there two days ago.

Lomu played 63 times for the All Blacks between 1994 and 2002, scoring 37 tries. He shot to worldwide stardom at the 1995 Rugby World Cup when he scored arguably the most iconic try in the sport's history when he ran over England wing Mike Catt en route to the try line. 

After an indifferent debut series against France in 1994 Lomu took the game by storm with the stunning World Cup campaign in South Africa in 1995.

He went on to play the 1999 World Cup as well and is the joint record try-scorer with South African wing Bryan Habana who was equalled his tally of 15 tries at this year's tournament.