Ikaroa-Rawhiti MP Parekura Horomia has paid tribute to his uncle Koro Dewes - who he says could be relied on for straight talking.
The Ngati Porou identity died this week at the age of 80, after a lifetime as a pioneering educationalist and an acknowledged expert in Maori language and history.
Mr Horomia says his uncle kept him on his toes throughout his working life, especially when he became Minister of Maori Affairs in the Labour Government.
Mr Dewes' funeral will be held on Friday at Hinerupe marae in Te Araroa.
