19 September 2006

Maoridom loses one of its foremost academics

Maoridom has lost one its foremost academics with news of the death of Professor Sir Hugh Kawharu, Minister of Maori Affairs Parekura Horomia said today.

Professor Sir Hugh Kawharu was Paramount Chief of Ngati Whatua, Chair of the Ngati Whatua o Orakei Maori Trust Board, and an Emeritus Professor of the University of Auckland having written extensively on issues including the Treaty of Waitangi, ethnicity, and Maori land tenure.

In 1989 Sir Hugh received New Zealand’s highest honour when he was made a member of the Order of New Zealand for his contribution to Maori.

“Sir Hugh was an outstanding servant of the Maori people,” said Mr Horomia. “His contribution as an academic was significant but his involvement in important issues extended far beyond the walls of Auckland University.”

Mr Horomia says examples of Sir Hugh’s influence and service were his membership of the 1976 Royal Commission of the Courts, as well as his membership of the New Zealand Maori Council, Waitangi Tribunal (1986 to 1996), and the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO.

“Sir Hugh will be missed not only by Ngati Whatua but by all New Zealanders who recognised his outstanding ability to contribute to important debates in a rigorous and constructive manner.

“He recognised the dignity of others, no matter their circumstances, and displayed in his life those qualities that made him truly a leader. Our condolences go to his family at this time,” Mr Horomia said.

ENDS

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