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Ngati Rarua and other iwi from Te Tau Ihu have been paying tribute to kaumatua Mugwi MacDonald, who died last week aged 84.
Haua Detoma Macdonald was a Maori All Black who went on to play professional rugby league in Britain, where he met his wife Marjorie.
He was a key figure in establishing Wakatu Incorporation in 1977, and sat on its board until 2004.
He was a vital part of the company, supporting new trainees and providing considered advice.
His contribution was marked by the naming of one of Wakatu subsidiary Tohu Wine’s award winning sauvignon blanc after him.
Mr MacDonald was buried on the Maori Island urupa after the tangi at Wairau Pa.
He is survived by his wife Marjorie, four children and many grandchildren and great- grandchildren.
Copyright © 2013, UMA Broadcasting Ltd
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