The man who was responsible for penning the images that brought many well-known Maori legends to life has died.
Peter Gossage, 69, died on the weekend after an undisclosed illness.
While the name of the author and illustrator, who's described by those who knew him as "fairly private", might not ring any bells...his colourful depictions of well-known Maori folklore remain a common feature of many a children's bookshelf, library and school.
Among the more than 20 titles he's penned are tales of the much-loved trickster, Maui, such as the story of How Maui slowed the sun, How Maui found his mother and How Maui found his father and the magic jawbone.
Penguin Random House New Zealand, publishing director, Debra Millar, said a relative had informed her of his passing.