The husband of Wanganui mayor Annette Main died suddenly on Tuesday.
John Blythe, 61, died unexpectedly at the couple's tourist retreat, The Flying Fox, which is about 30km from the city on the banks of the Whanganui River.
On Tuesday Wanganui District Council chief executive Kevin Ross expressed the council's deep sadness at the death of Mr Blythe.
"Our thoughts, sympathies and support are with mayor Annette and their family," Mr Ross said.
"The family is currently mayor Annette's priority and we respect their wish for privacy at this sad time."