Dr Benjamin Pitman ONZM 1947-2023
Dr Benjamin Frank Pitman ONZM
It is with heavy hearts that our Wairau Māori Art Gallery Charitable Trust whānau and friends acknowledge the passing of our greatly beloved kaitiaki, mentor, trustee, colleague and taonga:
His accolades and contributions are many to mention. But above all, he was a highly respected kaumatua, artist, writer and precious taonga for our communities. He was a gift from our tupuna who has now returned to their embrace.
The following is a whakatauki from Matua Benjamin’s Grandfather Okeroa Pittman.
Ko ngā tapuwae o ngā tūpuna ka riro i te kore noa iho. Ka mahue mai ko ou hei whāinga mo te tai hekenga rea.
Ancestral footprints are not forever. The incoming tide effaces all for a new beginning.
