The Minister of Maori Affairs Hon Parekura Horomia is saddened by the news that Ngai Tahu has lost one of its leading kaumatua Mr Bill Solomon.

Mr Horomia will pay his respects at Mr Solomon's tangihanga in Kaikoura today (Monday evening). He said the news of Mr Solomon's death, so soon after the loss of Sir Robert Mahuta, is saddening because Maoridom can not afford to lose leaders of their ilk.

"Bill Solomon was one of the few elders who grew up surrounded by traditional Maori values, but had used them to benefit his people in modern society. He was the epitome of a person who was lucky enough to take the best of both his Maori and Pakeha worlds".

Mr Horomia worked with Mr Solomon during the establishment phase of the successful Kaikoura Whale Watch business

"Bill had a great vision for his people and he worked hard to make it happen. He was humble and preferred to take a back seat, encouraging young people to take up the reins of leadership with his support. He will be severely missed by his family, his iwi and his community.

© Scoop Media