Funeral for Merivale 'queen' forces reshuffle for Labour leader

Labour leader Andrew Little. Photo/file

A funeral service was being held today for Merivale's "queen of Hampton Terrace" and respected kuia Margaret Mankelow.

Mrs Mankelow, who passed away at home on Sunday, has lived in Merivale for more than 50 years and was a volunteer at the Merivale Community Centre where she provided advice and ideas.

Described by family as "nothing but a true legend", her service was held at the Pyes Pa Crematorium Chapel at 2pm.

The timing of the service saw Labour Party leader Andrew Little reschedule his meeting with residents at the Merivale Community Centre.

Today's meeting was put back to the earlier time of 11am where he discussed issues around Tauranga's housing crisis including the lack of affordable houses, increasing homelessness, spiralling rents and the rental shortage.

Mrs Mankelow, a well-respected member of the community, was known for her big heart and no-nonsense attitude.

In 2008 at the community action day that included repainting the community centre, she told the Bay of Plenty Times that the centre helped keep youths off the streets.

"It was heartening to see so many people, some from outside the community, lending a hand of support," she said.

Three years later she teamed up with Palmers Bethlehem to show just how much produce can be grown in a back garden.

She said the garden was a real help to her and her family. "I hope it will show others what can be done fairly easily."