Tributes

Tributes flow for Otago University academic Dr Tasileta Teevale

Known for her passion, dedication and advocacy for Pacific education, Dr Teevale was appointed the first Director of Pacific Development at Otago University in 2013. One of her key roles was to drive the University’s newly adopted Pacific Strategic Framework 2013-2020.

Dr. Keakaokowai Varner Hemi, assistant Vice Chancellor Pacific, from the University of Waikato, took to social media to share her condolences reports Tagata Pasifika.

Va'aiga Tuigamala remembered for his love of the game and his community

Sadly, the man known as "Inga the winger" had passed away, aged 52. Tuigamala's cause of death has not been confirmed - however, he was about to launch a new video series on obesity in which he talks openly about his own health struggles, including being diagnosed with type two diabetes in recent years.

He is survived by his wife Daphne and four children.

Tuigamala played 39 games for the All Blacks, including 19 tests beween 1989 and 1993 before relocating to the United Kingdom to play rugby league for Wigan.

NZ Rugby salutes Pacific icons who gave their all to rugby

New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Mark Robinson acknowledged the heartache of losing both Joeli Vidiri and Fesolai Va’ainga Tuigamala this week.

He says it’s been incredibly difficult with the loss of two men who have such standing in rugby and in their communities.

“Joeli was a pioneer for Fijian rugby and set the platform for the many Fijian stars who have followed him. 

“Together with Jonah Lomu at Counties Manukau they formed one of the most formidable partnerships we’ve seen, and his performances for the Blues helped put Super Rugby on the map.”

Tributes pour in for rugby legend Fesola'i Va'aiga Tuigamala

“Just an incredible, incredible person and tragic to lose”, says Duane Mann, former rugby league player and coach. 

“Humility, such a community man, extraordinary through his football career, both in rugby and rugby league. He did many things other people simply can’t do, so he was a person who paved the way.”

Tributes pour in for Pacific missionary Bishop Robin Leamy

Emeritus Bishop of Auckland Patrick Dunn says he played a significant role in the growth of the church in Oceania. 

“Bishop Bob, as he was fondly called, spent much of his priestly life in missionary work in the Pacific, in Samoa and in Fiji, and later in the Cooks as Bishop of Rarotonga from 1984 to 1996.

“He was a man of many talents, as an educator, a leader and administrator. I will be forever grateful for his wisdom and friendship and his generous support.”

Twitch and gamers pay tribute after star's death

Mr Bernstein was a well-known and loved e-sports player and had 960,000 followers on streaming site Twitch.

His brother Gary Bernstein confirmed that Reckful had taken his own life, aged 31.

Twitch said Reckful was a "streaming pioneer" and that it was "devastated" to hear of his death.

Mr Bernstein had built his following in part by playing World Of Warcraft.

When his death was reported on Thursday evening, fans held virtual memorials inside the game.

     

Tributes paid to 'unforgettable' Hollywood 'icon'

His daughter-in-law Catherine Zeta-Jones led the tributes, writing: "To my darling Kirk, I shall love you for the rest of my life. I miss you already."

Tributes also came from director Steven Spielberg, Star Wars actor Mark Hamill and Breaking Bad star Bryan Cranston.

Douglas, who played the title role in the 1960 classic Spartacus, enjoyed a career that spanned seven decades.

Spielberg said Douglas left behind a "breathtaking body of work".

Tributes flow for Samoa broadcasting pioneer

Maposua Rudolf Keil, who was also a renowned businessman, died in Samoa on Sunday, aged 83.

The New Zealand Minister for Pacific Peoples, Aupito William Sio said his friendship with Maposua Rudolf Keil began back in Samoa, during a time of political protest.

He said it was a huge loss for not only family, but the Samoan community as well.