He was an expert in ancient Māori rituals, a man of many skills, a teacher and a highly respected elder. Last night Amster Reedy passed suddenly.
His people of Te Aitanga a Mate and Uepohatu mourn one of their great leaders.
New Amsterdam Reedy was born in 1943 and grew up on a dairy farm just out of Ruatoria on the East Cape with his 17 siblings. After school, he then ventured out to pursue his own path in education.
He was especially known for his ability to bring people together, no matter who they were or where they were from.
He leaves behind his wife Shirley, their three children, as well as their grandchildren and great grandchildren.
He is laying at his Marae, Hiruharama and will be there until his burial there also, on Saturday. Brave warrior and esteemed leader may you rest in peace.