Council Mourns the Loss of Councillor Tom O'Connor

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the sudden passing of Pareora-Otaio-Makikihi Ward Councillor Tom O’Connor, who died early this morning, Wednesday 6 August 2025.

Mayor Craig Rowley, speaking on behalf of the Waimate District Council and community, expressed deep sorrow at the loss of a respected colleague and friend:

“We are heartbroken. Tom was not only a dedicated councillor but a man of great wisdom, empathy, and integrity. His absence will be felt deeply—not just within Council chambers, but across the entire district. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Tom’s family, and all who knew and loved him.”

Tom served the Waimate District Council with distinction since 2013. His leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping initiatives such as the St Andrews/Southburn/Otaio Civil Defence Emergency Management Community Response Plans. He worked tirelessly for the St Andrews community and had been their staunchest advocate. He will be widely remembered for his humility, foresight, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of rural communities.

Outside of his Council work, Tom was a gifted writer and historian, contributing political and historical columns to the Waikato Times and Taranaki Daily News, and publishing numerous books. He also served as a Justice of the Peace, a former president of the New Zealand Grey Power Association, and a long-standing member of regional Fish and Game Councils. In 2018, Tom was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of his service to seniors, local government, and journalism.

Tom’s legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and public service. He will be deeply missed by his fellow councillors, Council staff, and the wider Waimate community.

We hold Tom’s family in our thoughts during this difficult time and honour the remarkable life he lived in service to others.