From there he went to Hawera Technical High School, where he won a scholarship to study at Massey University College.

[1] In this capacity, he promoted the concept of educating Pākehā in traditional Māori customs and culture, instigating marae courses for state and private corporations and encouraging large businesses to adopt a more multicultural mindset.

[2] During his time as Race Relations Conciliator, New Zealand faced major civil unrest caused by the 1981 Springbok Tour.

[1] He also authored several books on the Treaty of Waitangi and Māori culture,[5] most notably Te Marae: A guide to customs and protocol (1986; Reed Methuen), which was co-written with his wife Patricia.

He was survived by Patricia (née Wilson), his wife of 60 years, and their six children, along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.