EIT lost a great friend, supporter and leader with the sudden passing of the institute’s kaumātua Tuahine Joe Northover on April 6.
Of Ngāti Porou and Ngāti Kahungunu descent, Mr Northover was an important figure in the life of the institution. His leadership, mana and guidance were greatly valued by staff, most particularly in Te Manga Māori, but also to the senior leadership of the institution.
Chief executive Chris Collins says he will greatly miss his leadership and guidance.
“Tuahine was important to this institution in so many ways, and he was such a strong advocate for us. For me, his advice, knowledge and perspective were important guides. I shall very much miss our times talking over a cup of tea, and the wide-ranging discussions which were always insightful and fascinating.
“I was able to learn from his mana, knowledge and wide experience, and it was always offered with friendship and warmth. We are very thankful for what he gave us, and our deepest sympathies are extended to his whanau.”
EIT esteemed Mr Northover as an advocate for tikanga Māori and for his knowledge of traditional oral arts – whaikōrero, karakia, waiata and mōteatea.
Born in March 5, 1928 at Waipiro Bay on the East Coast, he attended Te Aute College and then went on to farm training at Flock House and two year’s training in the Royal New Zealand Air Force.
He settled in Hawke’s Bay with his first wife Nini Omana-Christie of Poukawa, and the couple had 14 children. After the death of Nini, he later married his second wife Matere (also known as Marsley) in 2002.
He was strongly committed to serving his community and his people. That contribution was recognised when he was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2002 Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
As well as EIT, he was kaumatua for the Police Eastern District, a number of Government agencies, the 28th Māori Battalion, Te Aute College, Napier City Council and a number of marae. He served on the Waitangi Tribunal for a three-year term and was a member of the board of directors for the Aotea Forestry Training Trust, the Hastings and Guilin Sister Cities and Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated.
EIT friends and colleagues were among the many who honoured Mr Northover at a tangi held on Ōmāhu Marae in Hastings.