Te Arawa kaumātua Mita Mohi, who died yesterday, is being remembered for his work with thousands of at-risk youth.
Mita Mohi Photo: TVNZ / Waka Huia / Screenshot
"He was a beautiful man and a gentle giant who helped so many young people, many of whom were at risk," said his cousin, Rotorua councillor Trevor Maxwell.
Mt Mohi's mau rakau [martial arts] camp on Mokoia Island took rangatahi away from the influences of the city and instilled a pride in Māori culture, he said.
"He treated them all equally and put them on the right path with the taiaha wananga he used to run on Mokoia Island."
Mr Maxwell said his cousin excelled in the sporting arena, representing New Zealand at rugby league as well as being an accomplished tennis player and wrestler.
He also remembers performing with him in the Ngāti Rangiwewehi kapa haka group when they won Te Matatini in 1983.
Mr Mohi's body will be taken to Awahou Marae, near Rotorua, this afternoon and his funeral will be on Thursday.