Crowds farewell respected leader Morehu Ngatoko Rahipere

Huria Marae is full of mourners today who are farewelling respected and loved leader Morehu Ngatoko Rahipere.

Dr Ngatoko Rahipere died peacefully at home on Tuesday surrounded by whanau.

Dr Ngatoko Rahipere in 2004. Photo/John Borren

The ringing of a bell signalled the beginning of the service as a brass band welcomed whanau and guests into the wharenui.

Family members spoke of Dr Ngatoko Rahipere's humble character, a man who was always smiling and dedicated his life to his people.

The casket was carried off Huria Marae and down to the Tauranga Harbour before 9am.

Dr Morehu Ngatoko Rahipere was carried to Motuōpae Island. Photo/ John Borren

More than 50 men, dressed in traditional Māori clothing, stood guard at low tide on the harbour as the casket was carried across to Motuōpae Island.

Hundreds of people followed behind and crossed over to the Island where Dr Ngatoko Rahipere was buried.

The flag at the Takitimu Dr and Elizabeth St roundabout is flying at half mast to acknowledge Dr Ngatoko Rahipere.

Crowds have gathered at Huria Marae to farewell Morehu Ngatoko Rahipere. Photo/John Borren

Tauranga City Council chief executive Garry Poole said lowering the flag to half-mast was an acknowledgement of Dr Ngatoko Rahipere's elevated status as a kaumatua in Tauranga Moana.

"He will be missed by many in our community for his strong leadership and advice.

"In his relationship with the council, he was the first chair of the Tangata Whenua Collective.

"It is appropriate to acknowledge his passing by half-masting the flag on edge of Waikareao looking across to his marae and Motuopae where he will be buried on Friday morning."

The flag at the Elizabeth St and Takitimu Dr roundabout was lowered to half mast today. Photo/Andrew Warner