Tributes flowed for New Zealand great Jonah Lomu after his unexpected death at the age of 40 on Wednesday.

Lomu played 63 times for the All Blacks and the dynamic winger, combining power and speed, was once considered almost unstoppable.

The rugby and sporting community paid tribute.

"I still can't believe the sad news. Love & thoughts go out to Jonah's family." - All Black Dan Carter.

"Thoughts and Prayers going out to the Lomu Family." - Former All Black Keven Mealamu.

"Our thoughts are with the @JONAHTALILOMU family tonight. A very special person. @AllBlacks." - former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick.

"The King! The game changer! A true gentleman of the game. RIPJonah #Superstar." - Wallaby Kurtley Beale.

"Devastated the greatest ever has passed away! The worlds in mourning for such an amazing talent yet genuine & humble human. R.I.P Jonah Lomu." – Australian rugby star James O'Connor.

"Such sad news hearing news just now of @JONAHTALILOMU. Such a gentleman and great role model for young Pasifika boys and girls. #RestIn." - former rugby league and union star Lote Tuqiri.

"There will never be another Jonah Lomu. He was rugby's first genuine superstar and as well as being an extraordinary rugby player he was also an exceptional man who gave everything to the game and his community in Auckland." - Australian Rugby Union chief executive Bill Pulver.

"We are so, so saddened. Heartfelt sympathy to family & a world of admirers who, like us, loved Jonah Lomu #RIPJonah." - New Zealand Black Caps

"Rest in Peace big man. A giant in every sense." - former English footballer Stan Collymore.