Much-loved Rotorua reverend Tom Poata is recovering in Waikato Hospital after a heart operation.
The Anglican vicar of St Faith's Church in Ohinemutu fell ill just days before Anzac Day and was unable to attend this year's dawn parade and Civic Memorial Service.
He was due to be one of the officiating clergy at both services.
Close friend Monty Morrison said Reverend Poata underwent a quadruple heart bypass operation on Tuesday this week and had come through the operation well.
"He's hitting his recovering milestones," Mr Morrison said.
