Veteran broadcaster, author and longtime Waitaki district councillor Jim Hopkins has died, aged 79.
The Waitaki District Council announced Hopkins' death on Monday evening, saying the long-serving elected member had died earlier that morning.
Waitaki mayor Mel Tavendale described Hopkins as a passionate advocate for the district whose impact would be felt for years to come.
"He was a fierce advocate for the people of Waitaki, both within and beyond council, and he scrutinised every detail. He kept us all honest,” she said.
"The council chamber will not be the same without him, his passionate arguments, attention to detail and incredible wit.
"Jim believed in democracy and he believed in Waitaki. I can only say again how deeply Jim will be missed as a councillor and as a friend."
Hopkins was widely known across New Zealand for his work in radio and television.
He had represented the Oamaru Ward since 2007 and served as Waitaki's deputy mayor from 2010 to 2013.
Before moving to Waitaki, he also served four terms as a councillor on the Banks Peninsula Council.
Chief executive Alex Parmley said Hopkins bought a "very considered approach" to local government, alongside a sharp sense of humour.
“I extend my condolences to his family and friends. We are working with Jim’s family to provide a fitting farewell for a deeply community-minded man whose commitment is something we can all look up to," Parmley said.
The council said its thoughts were with Hopkins' friends, family and the wider Waitaki community.
A condolences book would be available at the Waitaki District Council offices for people to sign, while the council flag would be flown at half-mast in his honour.
Details of a memorial service were expected to be announced in the coming days.
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