Tauranga City Council kaumatūa Huikākahu Brian Kawe has died.
Of Ngai te Ahi, Nga Tamarāwaho and Ngāti Tapu descent, Kawe had been the council's kaumatua for many years.
He also chaired the joint standing committee between tangata whenua and councillors/commissioners.
A written statement by the council said he had provided "an enormous amount of sage advice, guidance and support" during his time.
"It is with deep sadness that we hear of the passing of a great leader, Pāpā and friend."