Daryl Lilley: key obituary facts
Is Daryl Lilley dead? Yes. Daryl Lilley died on November 9, 2026, at age 52.
Cause of death: Daryl Lilley's cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
What was Daryl Lilley known for?
He was a rugby player.
More about Daryl Lilley
Born: 1 January 1974.
Gender: male.
Occupation: rugby union player.
Daryl Lilley, a New Zealand professional rugby union player who represented Taranaki, Canterbury and the Hurricanes, died on November 9, 2026, aged 52.
Born in New Plymouth, he attended New Plymouth Boys’ High School and began his provincial career with Taranaki in 1993. Four years later, he moved to Canterbury, where he played for the Crusaders through the rest of the decade.
A goal-kicking utility back, Lilley played fullback for the side and was part of its first Super 12 title-winning campaign in 1998. His contribution included scoring the winning try in the semi-final against the Sharks, a key moment on the Crusaders’ path to the championship. The 1998 season marked a notable point in a career that had taken him from provincial rugby in his home region to Canterbury and the Super 12 competition. Lilley returned to Taranaki in 2000 and began playing for the Hurricanes. His career encompassed provincial rugby for Taranaki and Canterbury, as well as spells with the Crusaders and Hurricanes, with his playing roles spanning fullback and utility back. He was born on September 17, 1974.