Today, our Council Service Centres are flying the New Zealand flag at half-mast to honour the passing of Sir Tim Shadbolt KNZM.

Our Chief Executive, Malcolm Alexander, knew Sir Tim personally and has a few words to share:

“It is fair to say that with Sir Tim’s passing, a mighty tōtara has fallen. His humour and passion in life was infectious to all those that knew him and I am privileged to have known him.

Sir Tim was a champion for the underdog, fighting for a number of issues impacting New Zealanders - including Māori rights and affordable further education (most notably zero fees at the Southern Institute of Technology).

He was a joker and somewhat of a showman but he balanced this magnificently with his capability, professionalism and dedication.

Instrumental in raising Invercargill’s status on both a national and international level, he will be sadly missed. New Zealand has lost an icon - and for many of us in local government and beyond, we have lost a friend.”

A public funeral service to celebrate the life of Sir Tim Shadbolt is being held in Invercargill today. The funeral will be live streamed on the Invercargill City Council YouTube account (link in comments) and his tribute page at frasersfunerals.co.nz/tributes.