Heritage New Zealand saddened by Sir Ian’s passing

16 January 2015

Heritage New Zealand saddened by Sir Ian’s passing

Heritage New Zealand notes with sadness the passing of Sir Ian Athfield in Wellington.

Sir Ian had been an invaluable member of Heritage New Zealand’s Board and Maori Heritage Council since September 2009.

“Sir Ian was a huge supporter of this organisation and its work on heritage conservation,” says Heritage New Zealand’s Chief Executive Bruce Chapman.

“He made an enormous contribution to our day-to-day work and our strategic thinking about the future direction of the organisation. He was always willing to share his thoughts and advice on any issues we raised and we appreciated his irreverent and wonderful sense of humour. His knowledge, influence and passion in protecting and enhancing the urban fabric of heritage were widely recognised and highly valued.”

Sir Ian’s appointment as New Zealand Institute of Architects architectural ambassador for the Christchurch rebuild and service as the institute’s president for three years were further testament to the highest regard the Government and professional community held him in.

“Sir Ian’s recent knighthood was a fitting tribute and acknowledgment of his services to architecture. The country is the richer for all the fine work he has done and his passing will be marked with great sadness.”

ENDS

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