Community support for a well deserved leader, Matua Murray.

It is with a very heavy heart that I convey the news of Matua Murray's passing, please join me in offering our heartfelt condolences to the whanau at this harrowing time.

To everyone that has given there love, prayers, time, effort and donations, thank you, it is as important now, more so than ever, that we keep those donations coming in and show our continuing love and support for the Witika Whanau.

Murray was recently diagnosed with a brain tumour and a shadow (cancer) on his lung. His longevity of life has been challenged, which he is taking on with a positive outlook.

Matua Murray has been teaching Kapa Haka in the Orewa area for over 30 years. At first he was the only Maori in the area who was able to deliver these valuable and treasured lessons.

Teaching Kapa Haka at: Orewa Primary School, Red Beach School, Wellsford Primary, Whangaparaoa Primary, Whangaparaoa College, Orewa College, Nga Iwi O Putorino and Silverdale Primary has been a massive challenge to say the least, but, one that both he and Mere have had great success with.

Every holidays, for over ten years he has taken boys from the Rodney area to Mokoia Island to teach Mau Rakau (Taiaha) under the guidance of Mita Mohi.

Matua has his own community Taiaha group which he tutors every Monday at Te Heringa Waka O Orewa.

As one of the Kaumatua for the Waitemata and Rodney Police he has carried out many blessings when the occasions arise and has been a valuable member of many community organisations.

Whaea Mere and Matua Murray have worked with many families. They have opened their home to children when some parents have needed respite or to act as temporary guardians to avoid children being suspended from school. He was a long term serving member of the Hibiscus Coast Community Centre under the guidance of Keith Morris and a foundation member of the Te Herenga Waka o Orewa Marae,the Kaipara Festival Committee and the Hibiscus Coast Kapa Haka Festival.

Murray has given so much to the community over the years and touched many with his generosity, knowledge and willingness to be the difference and is well known for his humble down to earth approach, his efforts have been noted not only by our schools but also by community and government agencies.

We ask that as a community we gather together to help financially support Murray and Mere, to make life just a little bit easier without the burden of worrying about finances, and allow them to continue to fight one of there toughest battles.