Open Polytechnic farewells Erima Henare
Kua hinga te tōtara nui o te wao nui a Tāne-mahuta. A great tōtara tree from the forest of Tāne-mahuta has fallen.
Open Polytechnic Chief Executive, Dr Caroline Seelig, today expressed the organisation’s sadness at the passing of Erima
Henare, Executive Director Māori Tumu Herenga.
“Erima was a much respected colleague at Open Polytechnic, and we acknowledge not only our own loss, but the nation’s
loss of such a respected leader in Māoridom. Our thoughts go out to Erima’s whānau, hap¬ū and iwi, and all those who
called Erima their mentor, colleague or friend,” says Dr Seelig.
Chairperson of the Open Polytechnic Council, Murray Bain, also expressed his condolences as the nation mourns the loss
of a leader who touched many lives. “Erima’s wise counsel, extensive knowledge of New Zealand’s Mā¬ori heritage, passion
for education, and his sense of humour will be missed. Open Polytechnic greatly appreciated all that he gave us in his
time with us.”
Haere atu rā e te Rangatira, e te Pāpā. Haere ki o mātua tipuna. Moe mai rā, moe mai rā, haere rā.
ENDS