A 'huge loss' to the North

The death last week of Murray Rae, one of the original Te Ahu trustees and who was elected to Te Hiku Community Board last year, was described by Mayor John Carter as a huge loss to the North.

Mr Rae, who died early on Friday morning after a brief illness, from which he was believed to have been recovering, will be interred at Victoria Valley after a service at Te Ahu at 1pm tomorrow. He was 75.

Mr Carter described Mr Rae as a "great guy" who had made a significant contribution to his community, and had been expected to continue doing so for many years yet.

"He had my respect and the respect of his peers," he added.

"He will be very badly missed, by the community board, the Te Ahu Trust and the wider community."

Te Ahu Charitable Trust chairman Mike Mitcalfe said Mr Rae's death had been a huge shock. Having played an important role in the trust's early days, he had recently returned to it, and had been expected to make a major contribution to achieving many of its aspirations.

"His experience, business nous, all that he brought to the trust was very valuable. He is going to leave a huge gap," Mr Mitcalfe said.

"On behalf of the trust I would like to extend my aroha and condolences to his family."

Mr Rae is survived by his wife Doreen, children Heather, Joanne and Stephen and eight grandchildren. The family has asked for donations to the Northland rescue helicopter in lieu of flowers.

Acting Far North District Council CEO Colin Dale has confirmed that a by-election will be called for the community board.