During his time with the regional council, Vercoe chaired the transport committee.
Waikato Regional Council chair Pamela Storey said in a statement Waikato communities “were blessed” with his service over many years, as he brought insight and experience to “every table he sat at”.
“He was the wise owl who would listen intently and give measured, meaningful responses that provided a clear steer, a clear direction, and a very clear point of view.
“It was under his leadership of the regional transport committee that sign-off was received for the completion of the Waikato Expressway... Hugh also championed the launch of inter-regional passenger rail, and was pleased to see the steady growth in numbers on Te Huia.”
Current Matamata-Piako District mayor Adrienne Wilcock said another legacy of Vercoe’s was getting Civil Defence Emergency Management in the Waikato running more effectively.
Vercoe served as the Civil Defence Emergency Management Group chairman from 2010 to 2022, where he led the Waikato through a series of measures.
“[These measures led] to better funding and professionalism. Our communities and local agencies are much better prepared to respond to disaster thanks to his passion and dedication in this area,” Wilcock said.
Vercoe also chaired the Morrinsville Community Board for three years, and was president of the Morrinsville Rotary Club (1991) as well as vice-president of the New Zealand National Fieldays Society (2011-2013).
He ran an Insurance brokering business and a sheep, beef and dairy farm in Tauhei. Vercoe received a Queen’s Service Medal in 2007 and was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2014 for his services to Local Government.
“We remember his life and the incredible contributions he made to Matamata-Piako and the wider Waikato. Farewell Hugh, and thank you for your leadership, hard work and commitment you poured into this community,” Wilcock said.
One of Vercoe’s final projects was setting up an Artillery Museum on his farm at Tauhei. The museum opened on September 30.
The Royal New Zealand Artillery Association announced Vercoe’s death on Sunday, October 22, saying he had been unwell for some time but his “usual incredible determination” made sure he was at the opening ceremony of the Museum.
Vercoe leaves behind his partner Jill, four children, 10 grandchildren, and step-children and step-grandchildren.
A service will be held at the Morrinsville Events Centre, Ron Ladd Place at 11am on Friday, October 27. The family welcomes everyone to come and celebrate his life.
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