5 September 2007 Media Release

Chief Executive reflects on passing of great Maori Leader

Crown Forestry Rental Trust Chief Executive Ben Dalton is today reflecting on the life of Maori rights campaigner Syd Jackson who passed away after a long battle with cancer.

Ben says Syd Jackson was an important part of the Maori renaissance which began during the late sixties.  He forged a formidable partnership with his first wife Hana as they spearheaded the Maori language petition to parliament on the 14 September 1972.

This single action served as a catalyst for further recognition of Maori rights and laid the foundation for other kaupapa led marches to parliament.

“I knew Syd as a young urban based Maori in Auckland during the early 70s and I remember him as an unshakeable individual who led from the front.”

“His determination to succeed in presenting an alternative view ensured he was pilloried from various sectors of the community however the issues he chose to represent remain important milestones on the long list of contemporary Maori achievements.

“Our immediate thoughts are with his whanau as they gather to mourn him, but I join many others in lamenting the loss of a man who truly did make a positive difference on the country’s landscape,” said Ben Dalton.

Contact:
Ben Dalton
Chief Executive Crown Forestry Rental Trust
(04) 915 1500