'Unreal day': de Groot marries long-time girlfriend

Ethan de Groot and Claudia Hutton married in Queenstown over the weekend. Photo: Instagram
Ethan de Groot and Claudia Hutton married in Queenstown over the weekend. Photo: Instagram
Few can match Ethan de Groot in the scrum but he has met his match off the field.

The All Blacks and Highlanders prop married long-time girlfriend Claudia Hutton in Queenstown at the weekend.

"The de Groots" was the simple message as the pair shared their first photo as a married couple from Jack’s Point on Instagram.

De Groot was resplendent in a sharp tuxedo, his bride wore a flowing veil, and the couple were accompanied by the rugby star’s beloved golden lab, Vinny.

Among the guests was Highlanders No 8 Hugh Renton, who posted about the "unreal day".

All Blacks forwards Ardie Savea and Tamaiti Williams also sent messages of congratulations, while former Highlanders first five Rhys Patchell posted "llongyfarchiadau" — Welsh for congratulations.

De Groot will get another week to celebrate his nuptials before rejoining his team-mates for the Super Rugby Pacific season.

 - APL