12/04/2026
It was with profound aroha,accompanied by tears, emotion, and laughter, that we celebrated the life of a distinguished local rural character. An expatriate of Wellington, a hitchhiking trip brought him to the Opunake region under the shadow of Maunga Taranaki over 50 years ago, where he resided until his passing. In accordance with his wishes, his family organized a quiet ceremony, followed by a private internment of ashes at the whanau urupa later last week. Terry's two remarkable daughters and loving wife did him justice in a special and loving way. Despite his desire for a low-key farewell, the mana that this man possessed, saw whanau and friends from around the district, all parts of New Zealand, the far north, and Australia, come to pay their respects and support his immediate whanau. Terry was a quiet, unassuming individual in every sense of the word. He was deeply devoted to his family, particularly his wife, children, and grandchildren, and more recently, his great-grandchildren. The week I spent with them was a time of learning and awe, as I witnessed the incredible skills people possess when occasions like tangi arise. The whaikorero in both Te Reo and English was outstanding and adhered to this man's wishes. His concern for family and others was evident throughout, and the stories of his life and accomplishments were both humorous and poignant, providing a fitting tribute to the man we were saying goodbye to. I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Terry's family and extended whanau. To Francis, Nicola, and Maria, thank you for your exceptional hospitality and care for all those present, including myself. Your compassion for your loved husband, father, and grandfather, while balancing your own grief, demonstrated the profound aroha that you and Terry shared over many years as a close-knit Kiwi family. I also appreciate the help with the waiata and karakia that people included in the ceremony and celebration for him. They were appropriate, pertinent and appreciated. I felt privileged to be there, to be invited, and to be included in the Kahui whanau. To bid farewell to an old Taita College ex-student, as I was, the experience was emotional and deeply rewarding. I will always remember the Kahui Salute and the Kahui Breakfast with a smile and positivity that Terry embodied. Kia kaha. Arohanui. Muzza.
