Te Runanga-A-Iwi O Ngapuhi wish to express their thoughts, prayers and aroha of the passing of a great Ngati Hine leader, Robin John Cooper CNZM.

“Robin’s tenacity, leadership and influence was both a catalyst and exemplar for the advancement of Maori health, social services and community development within Ngati Hine and Aotearoa” Acting Runanga Board Chair Carol Dodd said.

“As the inaugural Chair of the Whanau Ora Governance Group in 2010, the Runanga was fortunate to work alongside Robin. His recognition as a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit is testament to his leadership, charisma and service to his people. Ngati Hine, Ngapuhi and Te Ao Maori have lost another great leader. We extend our warmest condolences to his whanau and the people of Ngati Hine at this time”.

Na reira e te kakakura e Robin, takoto tiraha ana te rau kawakawa ki te poho o Motatau, ki nga pukepukerau o Ngati Hine. He rarangi maunga, ka tu te ao, tu te po. He rarangi tangata, ka ngaro ra, ka ngaro ra. E te Rangatira, moe mai ra.

Ends.

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