Kia ora koutou,

It is with deep deep sadness we learn of the passing of Dr Sir Toby Curtis at his home near Rotorua.

It is such a deep loss for his whānau, his iwi of Te Arawa, and for all of Māoridom.

Up to the end, Dr Sir Toby strived to advance the interests of our people and has led, on behalf of all Māoridom, efforts to secure the rights of Māori landowners and secure equity on climate change and forestry policy.

What we have secured for our people with Government will be a legacy to the strength and commitment of Dr Sir Toby. This legacy will linger for generations to come, as we, as a society, tackle climate change.

From the day I joined Te Arawa Fisheries Group you were always there to offer your support and guidance which I deeply appreciated. It has truly been our privilege e Te Pāpā to have spent time walking in your shadow, and learning from you.

Moe mai rā. Haere atu ki to whanau i tatari ana i a koe!

Ngā mihi,

Chris Karamea Insley