TVNZ news presenter and journalist Greg Boyed had been battling "depression", his grieving family say as they pay tribute to an "adored" son, brother, husband and father.
Boyed died on Monday while on a family holiday in Switzerland with his wife and young son.
The family said in a statement that Boyed, 48, had been "battling depression".
"Greg was the kindest and most caring man, a devoted father who cherished and loved his two children.
"We are all struggling to comes to terms with this," the family said.
"He was absolutely loved and adored. A treasured son, brother, husband and father, he will be deeply missed.
"Greg was a talented journalist, presenter, musician and an exceptional friend to those lucky enough to know him."
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• Tributes flow following the death of TVNZ news presenter Greg Boyed
So saddened to hear of the passing of Greg Boyed. I’ll be one of many who will have sat opposite him over the years - such a thoughtful interviewer who was quick to share a laugh. My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues.
— Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) August 22, 2018
As well as his young son, Boyed has a daughter, now in her early 20s, from an earlier relationship.
Boyed has been remembered today as a respected news reader at TVNZ and also a talented musician and dedicated marathon runner.
Close friend and former journalist Rachel Grunwell was shocked and devastated by Boyed's death.
"He was an amazing friend. I just wish I could have helped."
She and Boyed ran together "out west" but she said there was often more talking than running.
The pair were both ambassadors at Achilles New Zealand and Grunwell said Boyed took huge pleasure in helping other people.
When Boyed helped Grunwell guide a blind runner in the Rotorua Marathon a few years ago, he told her it boosted his confidence.
"He looked bullet-proof but he wasn't. He opened up to few people but when he did he had a massive heart. He was just a really kind man and he loved his kids and his family."
Grunwell said she had many special memories with Boyed - she plays the saxophone and Boyed was learning the instrument.
"He was just a really good friend. He gave back so much, to the charity, it actually made him really happy. I've been crying all morning. It's bloody devastating."
Grunwell and another friend had breakfast with Boyed before he flew to Europe a week ago.
The pair hugged goodbye.
"It's just a lot of shock."
So many people have said it much better, but please just all look after each other. Greg was always kind and funny and full of wisdom and there's too many broken hearts today.https://t.co/kEKqpGlNZG
— Katie Bradford (@katieabradford) August 21, 2018
TVNZ head of news and current affairs John Gillespie said the news had come as a huge shock to staff at the state broadcaster.
"Greg was a prominent figure in our newsroom for the last 25 years. He was a wonderful man and a talented broadcaster who strongly believed in the power and importance of journalism in people's lives.
"Greg was known for his wit and warmth and kindness. It's a very personal loss for us.
"It's a lot to take in. Greg will be greatly missed by us, he will be missed by our colleagues in the wider industry and he'll be missed by our viewers.
"Our thoughts are with Greg's whanau and friends."
Prime News presenter Eric Young described his close friend as the "kindest, sweetest, silliest man I knew".
Greg was the kindest, sweetest, silliest man I knew.
— Eric Young (@RealEricYoung) August 21, 2018
Newshub news reader Mike McRoberts, who had previously worked at TVNZ, described Boyed as a "really warm and generous person".
The pair worked together at the state broadcaster during the late 1990s/early-2000s and McRoberts said Boyed was "incredibly generous".
"He was also involved in Achilles NZ which is the charity I'm involved with which helps disabled athletes compete in big events."
Boyed had been to New York as a guide and was an ambassador for the programme.
"That was typical of Greg. He was an incredibly generous person with his time."
McRoberts said he would always remember Boyed's humour.
"He was pretty dry, but very funny. He just had the ability to make people laugh. I know of other colleagues of his who have always talked about how relaxed they felt about working with him on the late show."
McRoberts said Boyed was a skilled journalist who performed at the top of his industry for at least two decades.
"I think to be in the industry as long as he had and to be still performing at that top level you've got to have a real passion for the job.
"He worked on Q + A as well and so clearly had some very good skills there in terms of interviewing and the work that he did.
"I know when we worked together he was very well respected."
Boyed's death was a huge shock and a "real upset", McRoberts said.
1 News political editor Jessica Mutch said she wanted to thank Boyed for all of the "advice, laughs and debates".
Thanks for the advice, laughs and debates Greg, you’ll be missed. RIP.
— Jessica Mutch McKay TVNZ (@MutchJessica) August 21, 2018
Boyed was due to start work as as contributor for the National Business Review when he returned from Europe. NBR publisher Todd Scott saying he was devastated by the news.
Boyed's broadcasting resume is packed with some of television's most recognisable shows – including One News, Fair Go, Q + A, Close Up and Target.
He was one of the three original hosts of Seven Sharp, alongside Jesse Mulligan and Ali Mau, when that show started in early 2013.
He was also the first to leave, later that year, returning to late-night television to host One News' Tonight bulletin.
"It's Greg's decision," a TVNZ spokeswoman said at the time.
"He's enjoyed his time on the show but he feels more at home behind the desk of Tonight. He feels his strengths are strongest, and best used, on a straight-up news offering."
Boyed grew up in Te Puke and started his journalism and broadcasting career in radio in Tauranga in 1991, quickly rising through the ranks and eventually moving to IRN in Wellington and then Auckland.
He continued to be a regular voice across the airwaves, most recently filling in as Drive host on Newstalk ZB, while Larry Williams was on holiday.
Boyed also worked as a TV producer, with a long list of credits including Flipside and The Last Word.
Boyed married Swiss singer-songwriter Caroline Chevin in 2014 in her native country, in a surprise wedding. Their son was born the following year.
Boyed was himself an avid musician who played the drums. He was also an accomplished marathon runner.
When Chevin arrived in New Zealand in 2014 she told Spy: "I'm excited to start my new life Downunder. I want to discover more of this beautiful country, learn about Kiwi culture and hopefully get inspired to make more music."
New Zealand First list MP Jenny Marcroft, a former radio newsreader, said she was devastated to hear of the death of her friend.
Devastated to hear of the passing of @GregBoyed . Absolutely loved working with him back in the days of IRN News. Will miss you my friend. Moe mai, moe mai, moe mai ra.
— Jenny Marcroft MP (@jennymarcroft) August 21, 2018
Former TVNZ Breakfast host Rawdon Christie said the news was "horrific".
Horrific news of Greg Boyed's death today. My thoughts are with his family.
— Rawdon Christie (@RawdonChristie) August 21, 2018
Suddenly my own doubts seem so very trivial. Told this morning of the death of my friend and colleague (and band mate) Greg Boyed. A lovely man, smart, funny, kind, thoughtful. I have no words. Check in on your loved ones.
— Damian Christie (@damianchristie) August 21, 2018
Days like these never make sense. We're devastated - Greg Boyed was one of the wittiest, funniest people I've ever worked with. Me and an old mate made an effort to catch up and have a drink the other day - gestures like that take on greater significance on days like today.
— Mark Crysell (@MarkCrysell) August 21, 2018
Saddened by the news of Greg Boyed’s death. He was an inspiration to so many young journalists. He will be missed. Kia kaha
— Sam Kelway (@sam_kelway) August 21, 2018
Broadcasting Minister Clare Curran extended her condolences to Boyed's family and friends.
Terribly sad news today about the sudden death of Greg Boyed at 48. My heartfelt sympathy to Greg’s family and friends and to his TVNZ colleagues. If you need help call or text 1737. If it’s an emergency and you feel like someone else is at risk, call 111.
— Clare Curran (@clarecurranmp) August 21, 2018
Former National MP Tau Henare also paid his respects.
Ka aroha hoki ki a #GregBoyed me tana whanau. #RIP chief.
— WestSide 8345 (@tauhenare) August 21, 2018
RIP @GregBoyed you will be missed kia au to moe
— Nanaia Mahuta (@NanaiaMahuta) August 21, 2018
Former United Future leader and MP Peter Dunne said Boyed was a "skilled professional and a decent individual whom so many will miss".
Deepest condolences to Greg Boyed's family on their tragic loss. A skilled professional and a decent individual whom so many will miss.
— Peter Dunne (@honpeterdunne) August 21, 2018
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