An Archdeacon of the Anglican Church says the death of Sir Paul Reeves is a huge loss for Maoridom.
The country's first Maori Governor General and the youngest ever Anglican Bishop died of cancer on Sunday - aged 78.
A tangi for him will be held at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Auckland from Monday.
Archdeacon Dr Hone Kaa says he will remember Sir Paul as a leader, who spoke his mind.
He says the death of Sir Paul is a great loss because he wasn't afraid to advocate for all things Maori.
Sir Paul is survived by his wife Beverley, and their three daughters.
