Willie Hona — former guitarist and singer for legendary New Zealand reggae band Herbs — has passed away.
His daughter, Natalie, confirmed he died yesterday evening through a post to Facebook this morning.
Hona had been in battle with cancer.
"Today, we mourn the passing of my Dad Wiremu (Willie) Hona, who passed away last night surrounded by his loving whānau in Paraparaumu.
"He Aituā. He Aituā."
She also revealed details for his tangi – which would be held at his marae, Te Piiti. Omanaia South Hokianga on Tuesday, May 7.
"On Wednesday, we will travel to Pa Te Aroha Marae Whirinaki, where he will lay for the duration of his huimate."
Hona joined Herbs in 1983 after a number of its founding members departed in quick succession.
Fronting the band, Hona and fellow vocalist Tama Lundon became a popular songwriting duo. According to Audioculture, they were behind hits such as Long Ago, Nuclear Waste, and Listen.
Hona was inducted into the New Zealand Music Hall of Fame in 2012 as part of Herbs.
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