Bay of Plenty Regional Council has set up a $20,000 fund for a scholarship to honour former Maori ward councillor Hawea Vercoe.
The Rotoiti kura kaupapa principal died of brain injuries after being knocked down outside a bar in Whakatane last November. A man, 21, was charged with his murder.
Chair John Cronin says Mr Vercoe made a huge contribution to the regional council.
Waatea News reports the council's Maori committee is developing criteria for the fund.
