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Sadness at the passing of a great New Zealander – Sir Wira Gardiner
“Sir Wira Gardiner was a great New Zealander with a very distinguished record in military, public, and business life.” says the Rt. Hon Winston Peters.
“Coming from a very large family and economic hardship he nevertheless distinguished himself in academia and in the many roles he filled in an exemplary public life.”
“Despite his training he was an extraordinary practical yet visionary personality and trusted across the political divide. In particular, Wira had great plans for Maori youth and his record of achievement when examined closely is an exceptional one. If there are great role models then Sir Wira is certainly one of them.”
“Our heartfelt condolences go to Hekia, to his family and wider whanau. That said, this is also a time to celebrate a life so meaningfully lived. So many of us will remember and miss him being deeply indebted to an exceptional personality,” says Mr Peters.
“Any plaudits Sir Wira receives at this time, in his case, are thoroughly deserved.”
New Zealand First Media Press Release
National pays tribute to Sir Wira Gardiner
Aue te mamae, te pouri o te ngakau!
Kua hinga te totara o roto o te Waonui o Tane
E te rangatira, Harawira
Kei te tangi, kei te heke nga roimata o te motu.
I te ringa kaha o aitua kua pa mai nei i a koe
Haere, hoki atu ra ki te whaea tuturu a te tangata, a Papatuanuku.
Hikoi to hikoi i roto i nga tapuwae o ratou ma
E tatari ana mou kei tua o te arai
No reira e te poutokomana o te Roopu Nahinara
Te poutokomana o te whanau.
Kua oti pai to mahi i te ao kikokiko.
Ekore e wareware nei i a koe.
Moe mai i to moengaroa.
Haere, takoto, okioki i roto i te aroha o te Ariki.
National Leader Christopher Luxon is extending condolences to the whanau of Sir Wira Gardiner following his passing yesterday.
“Sir Wira was an exceptional man, dedicated to serving New Zealand and making it a better place for all.
“After a distinguished career in the military, he held many roles across both the public and private sectors. He was often called upon to resolve issues that no one else could, particularly when they involved Maori-Crown relationships.
“Part of his legacy will also be his recording of Maori history through the many books he authored.
“Not many people have or will ever make the kind of contribution to this country that Sir Wira did.
“Sir Wira’s passing is a great loss to Maori, to Aotearoa New Zealand and to his iwi and whanau, to whom he was devoted. He will be very missed by all.
“On behalf of the National Party, our thoughts go out to Hekia, his children and the wider whanau at this very sad time.”
National Party Press release
