We wish to acknowledge the passing of former Te Ohu Kaimoana commissioner (Treaty of Waitangi Fisheries Commission), Dame Mable June Hinekahukura Mariu DNZM QSM JP, or ‘Aunty June’ as she was affectionately known. Dame June passed away on Saturday the 10th of August at the age of 92, surrounded by whānau.
Dame June was a high achiever and leader in a number of areas including sport (representing Aotearoa in netball, softball and indoor basketball), education, youth advocacy and of course her service to her people. She was the National President of the Māori Women’s Welfare League, the inaugural Chair of Te Whānau O Waipareira Trust and a formidable activist for Māori.
Dame June’s service was rightfully recognised through a Queen’s Service Medal in 1985, a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2006, and finally as a Dame of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2012.
We send our love and condolences to Dame June’s whānau and friends. Moe mai rā e te Māreikura.
