Tenei kua takoto a James Hapeta
Haere e te Rangatira
Just to let you know James passed away on sunday.
He is on Raukawa Marae, Otaki today (Tues 25/6)
Funeral service on Wednesday 26 June at Rangiatea Church , Otaki at 11am
“James Hapeta was a founding member and stalwart of Hawaikinui Tuarua. Through the years James constantly maintained a close association with the club and was always on hand to provide support when needed. This would often see James clearing the track through to the waka on Lake Waitawa, installing racks for W1’s, and keeping up the maintenance on the clubs fleet of waka in Otaki. He was warm and welcoming and when you spoke with James he gave you his full attention, especially if you where talking about paddling, a subject James had a very real passion for. This passion was also what led to James playing a significant role in developing waka ama in schools within both the Otaki and Levin communities. At the time of his passing James held the position of Chairperson of Hawaiiki Nui. On hearing of the news one club member was heard to remark that James was “one of the good guys who will leave a void in his passing”. A fitting epitaph for someone who held, and will continue to hold, a very special place in Hawaikinui Tuarua Waka Ama ki Otaki.“
Our love and condolences go to Denise and the whanau.
