Luatua is Blues' best

The much-loved Blues stalwart, who is leaving the franchise for Bristol after earning 76 caps since his debut in 2012, was honoured with both awards at a glamorous ceremony in Auckland.

He was denied a third award by leading try scorer Rieko Ioane, who was voted the Fans' Player of the Year.

New-recruit Michael Collins received the Rookie of the Year award, recognising a remarkable debut season that saw him earn 13 caps, and for the second year in a row up-and-coming rugby talent Dalton Papalii was named our Development Player of the Year.

Popular wing Matt Duffie was awarded the Mealamu Medal for being the franchise Person of the Year, an award that recognises the person who best represents our Blues values and commitments on and off the field.

Former Crusaders prop Alex Hodgman won the 2017 Player in the Community award for his tireless efforts in our community.

As well as giving out awards, the franchise honoured our departing players – especially 99-cap veteran Charlie Faumuina, who is leaving to join French rugby franchise Toulouse.

Blues awards winners:

Player in the Community Award – Alex Hodgman

Development Player of the Year – Dalton Papalii

Rookie of the Year – Michael Collins

franchise Person of the Year – Matt Duffie

Fans' Player of the Year – Rieko Ioane

Players' Player of the Year – Steven Luatua

Most Valuable Player – Steven Luatua