Prominent Taranaki Whānui and Te Ātiawa elder Sam Jackson (80) passed away in hospital last night following a short illness.
Wellington Mayor Celia Wade-Brown remembers Jackson as a person who carried out his work with grace, humour and a deep affection for all people.
Sam Jackson played a key role in the settlement of Wellington's Treaty claims.
The Jacksons were jointly awarded the Insignia of a Member of the NZ Order of Merit for services to the community.
Jackson represented Taranaki Whānui at Government House in Wellington for state welcomes and official occasions.
He was also the senior kaumātua who welcomed a very special guest, Prince Charles.
He was one of Wellington's most respected kaumātua who will never be forgotten.