Mr Tahana said he had formed a strong personal relationship with Mr Black in the past three years.
"He was very encouraging and supportive. A very caring person who would make the effort, not to gain anything but just because being there for others is the right thing to do.
"I had a bout of depression earlier this year and he was one of the people who visited me, sat with me, brought me kai. The way he reflected the values of our grandparents was one of the things I loved about him."
He said while it was sad Mr Black had left the earth so soon, he lived a full life.
"We should be celebrating all that he achieved during his time, he has left a true legacy."
Rotorua district councillor Trevor Maxwell worked with Mr Black in a number of activities and was "absolutely shocked" to hear of his death.
"I am still kind of gobsmacked, he was so young. My heart goes out to his relatives in Tauranga at this hard time."
Mr Maxwell said he would remember Mr Black as a person who "felt strongly about certain issues, had wonderful oratory skills and a creative mind".
Friend, colleague and ally Te Ururoa Flavell said he was shattered at the premature passing of the iwi leader and tribal ambassador.
"Te Awanuiarangi was driven by an internal fire, burning within, which compelled him to make a difference in every sphere of his life," said the Waiariki MP and Maori Party co-leader.
"I loved him dearly, and I cannot believe he is no longer with us."
As a son of Ngati Pukenga, Ngai Te Rangi, Waitaha, Ngati Ranginui and Ngati Raukawa ki Otaki, Mr Black was a highly respected leader and a dedicated champion for his people.
Mr Black had the courage and the commitment to stand and represent his people wherever he heard the call, he said.
Mr Flavell said his dear friend was a champion of so many things for Maori people and he could never comprehend how he managed to be in so many places at the same time.
"But as diverse and comprehensive as the scope of his work was, today we feel particularly for all those who loved him as a papa, a partner, a brother, a son."