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The Te Hana community lost a man with a big heart and an international reputation when master carver and sculptor Kerry Strongman died on January 7, aged 69.
Mr Strongman created what he called “jewellery for giants” from his studio and gallery on SH1, in Te Hana. The mega-sized pieces, made from 45,000-year-old swamp kauri, were sold to private and corporate collectors all over the world, as well as being exhibited in Amsterdam, New York and Germany.
Born in the King Country of Irish, Scottish, European and Maori heritage, Mr Strongman was a deeply spiritual man. He travelled widely, and a range of cultural and philosophical views informed his work. He often donated pieces worth thousands of dollars to worthy causes and he was dedicated to helping troubled youth and former prisoners by providing opportunities to learn and work. He was also the Wellsford Christmas Parade Santa for many years.
Services were held at the Oruawharo Marae, Parawhenua Marae in Ohaeawai and the Waikumete Cemetery. He died after complications following heart failure and a stroke, and is survived by five children.
