REMEMBERING A STARR: Waikohu players join as one in observing a minute’s silence following the death of Waikohu community and sporting stalwart Te Whetu “Starr” Rutene on Saturday. Pictures by Paul Rickard and Rebecca Grunwell
PREMIER rugby teams on both fields at the Oval lined up as a sign of respect for a man described by Waikohu coach Geoff Pari as “everything to anyone who has been involved with the club (Waikohu Sports Club)”.
Mr Rutene lived his entire life at Te Karaka and was
hugely involved in the community.
On the rugby field, he was a halfback with the Puha and Rangatira clubs, and played two seasons (1967-68) for Poverty Bay. He remained steadfastly involved with the Waikohu club over many decades, filling a variety of roles from coaching to club captain, and was chairman up to his death.
His community involvement was also extensive and ongoing, including education, health and the environment. The Waikohu Lions, volunteer ambulance and fire brigade, Waikohu College Board of Trustees, Gisborne Country Music Club and the Motu kiwi sanctuary were just some of the organisations in which he was involved over a rich and full life.
This contribution was acknowledged by several awards.
