A Northland artist renowned for his contribution to contemporary Maori art has died.
Cliff Whiting passed away yesterdaymorning at the age of 81.
Originally from East Cape and of Te Whanau-a-Apanui descent but long based in Russell, Mr Whiting was a long-serving member of the Order of New Zealand - appointed in 1998 - and his death means the list drops down to 18 members.
It can only have a maximum of 20 living members at any time.
Mr Whiting started his career as an artist, educator and arts administrator in the 1950s.