It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Hon Parekura Horomia, MP for Ikaroa-Rawhiti and a former Minister of the Crown.
Parekura was a warm-hearted and generous man. He was respected across the political spectrum and across Māoridom. He was a noted orator in Te Reo, and marae throughout our country opened their doors to him.
Throughout his life, Parekura was a tireless worker for the people of the East Coast and for Māoridom and was passionate about promoting community and employment development. The creation of Māori Television remains an enduring legacy of Parekura’s public service.
At this sad time, on behalf of my wife Janine and my family, I extend my deepest sympathies to Parekura’s whānau and iwi, and to his many friends and colleagues spread throughout New Zealand. Ka hinga te tōtara o te wao nui a Tāne. Moe mai, moe mai, moe mai.
Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae
Governor-General of New Zealand