Renowned broadcaster and clinical psychologist Nigel Latta has died after a battle with cancer.
He was 58.
In a post to Facebook, Latta's family said he died yesterday.
"Nigel passed away with the same dignity and positivity that he carried through life."
In 2024, Latta was diagnosed with an "incurable stomach cancer".
"You were never dying, just living until the moment you weren’t. You fought cancer with enormous bravery. You’ve spent your life helping others in need. And now it’s your turn to rest," the post read.
"He will be dearly missed by his wife Natalie, daughter Rina, son Kieran, and three stepchildren, Elijah, Maya and Leon."
Born in Oamaru, Latta rose to prominence in the 2010s, best known for his documentaries on true crime, parenting, and psychology.
Read more: Nigel Latta on true love and life since his terminal cancer diagnosis
Between 2008 and 2012, Latta was a presenter on 14 documentaries and television series. He also wrote seven parenting books.
In 2012, Latta was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to psychology.
Latta was married twice, marrying fellow psychologist Natalie Flynn in 2023 – just months before he was diagnosed with cancer.
Psychologist Nigel Latta dies aged 58 - see more on TVNZ+
Latta and Natalie spoke to 1News earlier this year.
"It’s like I can think about dying, dying doesn't scare me because I just think I've been asleep," Latta said. "That wasn't scary. Death is the same thing. But it's leaving Natalie alone. That's the thing that always affects me the most."
'I've been asleep, that wasn't scary. Death is the same thing' - see more on TVNZ+
He said his wife, his children, his dogs, and his passion for giving advice gave him reason to keep fighting.
“We have this illusion that life will go on forever, so the joy gets buried in all the everyday stuff. What we've learned is, and I wish I'd done this earlier in my life, connect with the joy earlier. Don't wait for the catastrophe.”
'Empathy, humour and insight'
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said he was "deeply saddened" to hear of Latta's death.
"Like so many Kiwis, Amanda and I read his books on parenting when our kids were younger.
"He had a remarkable ability to connect with people through his writing and broadcasting with empathy, humour, and insight.
"Our thoughts are with his family and all who knew and loved him."
Psychologist Nigel Latta dies aged 58 - see more on TVNZ+
The Gut Cancer Foundation also paid tribute to Latta.
"Spending any time with Nigel you were struck by positivity and enthusiasm for life, none of which were diminished by his diagnosis. Nigel's approach to his illness was inspirational. He spoke passionately about resilience and remaining positive in spite of the challenges he faced, and remained incredibly generous with his time and energy, supporting GCF and others even whilst going through treatment."
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