Hundreds of people from far and wide gathered to mourn local businessman Thakorlal (Tom) Gordhan after he died of a stroke on September 1 at the age of 84. He ran several successful businesses including Tom's Superstore and a motel which also carried his name - Tom's Motel. Tom was remembered as a colourful man who reached out to others. He was instrumental in setting up Rotorua's Indian Association, sponsored many Indians looking to come to New Zealand, and was a member of the Rotorua West Rotary Club. He also volunteered during frequent trips back to India and raised funds for hospitals and eye clinics there.
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On November 30, Margaret Parker died in Rotorua at the age of 68. For 15 years, she worked with clients of St Chad's, in the music therapy programme, and tutored in reading and writing. She also served as president of the QE Hospital Patients Association. Margaret brought to fruition major projects such as the beautiful stained glass window, Reflections and Visions, the Art in the Hospital project, and the Quiet Room before ill health forced her resignation in May last year. She passionately lobbied for better access to QE health for high needs patients helping the hospital survive years of near closure.
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Ian Harris Hossack, a past president of the Mamaku Residents' Association, died on November 17 at his home in Mamaku. Ian served as chairman during a time of considerable difficulty but he carried out his duties undaunted; he kept the Rotorua District Council up to its task, ensured the Mamaku School got a satisfactory car park opposite the school, and walked the village almost daily to keep abreast of the village's needs and requirements. Ian was also a renowned mechanic - he held records against the clock in the dismantling and building of motors.
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Roland Clarence (Rollie) Burling, known as "the mayor of Waikite", was the last of seven original post World War II Waikite Valley settlers. He died aged 92. Roland served as president and greenkeeper of the Arawa Bowling Club, and was instrumental in developing the small farming community after receiving farmland for Pacific Theatre service.
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Te Arawa kaumatua and former chairman of Te Arawa Maori Trust Board Rakato (John) Macfarlane died in March, aged 81, after a long battle with cancer. As director of the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute (now part of Te Puia) in the 1990s, his level-headedness was credited with keeping a protester takeover at bay during occupations regarding plans to privatise the institution. He was deeply involved in tribal and community affairs, and always showed a willingness to serve.
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Raymond Warren Cook died after a long battle with a medical condition in January, aged 53. Raymond gave more than two decades of service to the community, mainly as a Maori Warden. He received a Rotorua District Council community leadership award for tirelessly helping others, in particular youth, working for disadvantaged people and helping keep the community safe. He regularly worked 12- to 16-hour days and walked great distances to and from events.
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Te Arawa mourned the loss of a woman who was described by many as dynamic, innovative and charismatic. Hundreds farewelled Linda Moewaka Morrison in Ohinemutu on December 29. The 67-year-old suffered a sudden medical condition and passed away on Boxing Day, surrounded by family at Rotorua Hospital. The younger sister of Sir Howard Morrison was a former singer, founder of a South Auckland modelling school and agency, and creator of the Ohinemutu Informer, a newsletter-type booklet featuring stories of people from Ohinemutu.
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Ngati Whakaue leader Rawiri (David) Rangitauira passed away in July. He, along with his wife Cathy Dewes, were among those who led the Te Reo Maori Society. He was later the lead lawyer who took the claim for the Maori language to the Waitangi Tribunal. He had been a prominent contributor over many years to tribal affairs within Te Arawa. Prior to his death he was writing a book detailing the meanings behind the traditional chants of Ngati Whakaue.
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Korean War veteran Nepia Maniapoto died in July aged 84. Coming from a well-known rugby family Nepia played for Southern Maori, including a few championship games in the 1950s, and had three brothers who were Maori All Blacks. Nepia served as a gunner in the Royal New Zealand 16th Field Artillery in the Korean War, and is said to be the last person in the New Zealand regiment to fire at North Korean troops, after his gun accidentally discharged on the day a ceasefire was announced, July 27, 1953.
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The first pastor of Rotorua's Living Well Church was farewelled in October. Maurice McDonald died after a long illness and was remembered for his service to people. His first congregation was made up of seven people when the church opened in August 1990. It now has a congregation of 400. He was the lead pastor of Living Well for 11 years.
