Passing of John Tahuparae - 2/10/2008Acting Mayor Ray Stevens today said the passing of John Rangitihi Rangiwaiata Tahuparae was an occasion of great sadness, both locally and nationally.
Mr Tahuparae had worked closely with the Wanganui District Council as well as being Parliament's first official kaumatua.
"He has had enormous input on cultural and tikanga matters, both in Wanganui and throughout New Zealand," Cr Stevens said.
"Mr Tahuparae's knowledge and leadership will be greatly missed and our thoughts are with his whanau and iwi."
Acting Mayor Stevens, Acting Deputy Mayor Sue Westwood and Acting Chief Executive Kevin Ross will represent the Council at Mr Tahuparae's tangi next week.
In line with Council policy for persons of Mr Tahuparae's standing, the Council will lower its flags to half-mast on Tuesday, October 7. |
