News Release

5 November 2014

Mayor mourns passing of respected kaumatua

Mayor Len Brown is saddened by the passing of Eru Thompson, one of Tamaki Makaurau’s most beloved kaumatua.

“Eru was a respected kaumatua who supported many council initiatives and was a strong and tireless advocate for his community, his people and the people of Auckland,” said Len Brown.

“Eru was pivotal in the ongoing development of the cultural environment in the west and the south, and his sage advice, wisdom and knowledge was sought after throughout Auckland.

“A mighty totara has fallen and my condolences go to his whanau at this sad time,” said Mr Brown.

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse, who was previously deputy mayor of the former Waitākere City Council, paid tribute to a friend and colleague.

“Eru’s passing is an incredibly great and sad loss. He was a dear, dear man and I will miss him personally and professionally.

“He was much loved and committed to his family, his people, his colleagues and his friends and he will be painfully and sorely missed by many, many people.”

Mr Thompson passed away last night surrounded by his family.

Photo Caption: Eru Thompson was a familiar figure at council events and meetings across the region. Here he is pictured at blessing marking the start of works on the Onehunga foreshore restoration project. Photo: Auckland Council.

ENDS

Editor’s notes

Eru Thompson was the Pou Arahi, tikanga advisor to Waitākere City Council, before the Auckland amalgamation and continued to provide ongoing support and advice to Auckland Council. He also acted as kaumatua and cultural advisor in Auckland’s west and south.

An active board member of the mana whenua of Tamaki Makaurau and the Tainui waka - Eru's background was hugely diverse and spread across many disciplines.

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