Eric Lander (In Memorium)

Tautoko

Kua hinga te tōtara, e te rangatira Eric moe mai rā, haere ki tō moenga roa ki te taha o tō tūpuna ki Hawaiiki. Nō reira ka tangi te ngakau, kua wheturangitia koe o Matariki e, haere haere haere atu rā.

Eric joined the Janszoon team in 2021, working alongside our Education Coordinator Brooke Turner to support the teachers and students at Golden Bay High School and Motupipi Primary School. He also helped lead the Abel Tasman Youth Ambassador programme, sharing his understanding of Mātauranga Māori and joining our young leaders on many trips into the Abel Tasman National Park.

We will remember Eric for his kindness, generosity of spirit and ability to connect with students of all ages, as well as his endless energy, sense of humour, positivity and constant smile. On our overnight trips into the park, Eric used to wake the ATYA crew in the morning by singing Waiata, it was a beautiful way to wake up in the park. We will miss his energy, presence, and ability to help young people tune into the wonders of nature and te Taiao.