The founder of Tahiti-Pacifique magazine Alex du Prel has died on Moorea after an illness at the age of 73.
Alex Du Prel Photo: RNZ/ Walter Zweifel
Du Prel launched the monthly French-language publication in 1991 to provide a fiercely independent view on events in French Polynesia.
He ran the magazine until 2015 when he sold it to Fenua Communication but continued to contribute as a writer.
Austrian-born du Prel arrived as an engineer in Tahiti in the 1970s after a solo crossing of the Pacific on his yacht.
He then managed Marlon Brando's Tetiaroa island before starting writing and publishing.
Photo: RNZ
He became a widely respected voice in support of Tahitian tradition and culture, but was frequently embroiled in disputes with political leaders keen to shut down his publication.