After fighting a crippling lung disease for most of her life, 23-year-old Esther-Jordan Muriwai passed away today.
For 14 years, Esther spent most of her time in hospital fighting a weakening respiratory condition, bronchiectasis.
It's a silent disease killing Māori kids seven times the rate of non-Māori.
With these statistics, Esther took it in her stride to establish the Northland Bronchiectasis Support Group with the support of Dr Lance O'Sullivan.
Two years ago, Esther, a kura kaupapa graduate with a Degree in Māori Studies, decided to take charge of her life.
She started by entering the Miss Aotearoa beauty pageant placing runner-up, as well as completing a children's book.
Last year, the Whangarei resident put her name into the hat to stand for the Whangarei District Council.
Two months ago, she was presented with an Asthma Foundation Achievers Award at Government House.
Tomorrow, a service will be held at St Francis Xavier Church in Whangarei for family and friends before returning her to Waihou Waimirirangi Marae in the Hokianga on Saturday.