“Extraordinary Legacy”: Tributes Flow for Malcolm Campbell

The passing of former Malcolm Campbell has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the Eastern Bay of Plenty, as political leaders and colleagues remember him as a tireless advocate for Kawerau and a devoted public servant.

Campbell, who served seven terms as Mayor of Kawerau between 2001 and 2022, died peacefully on Thursday, 21 May, aged 73, following a short illness.

In a statement on behalf of councillors and staff, Mayor Faylene Tunui described Campbell as “one of the true legends of Kawerau”.

“Nā koutou i tangi, nā tātau katoa / when you mourn, your tears are shed by us all,” Tunui said.

“It is with a grief-stricken heart that I share the passing of former Mayor of Kawerau Malcolm Campbell.”

Tunui said Campbell was “one of us”, having been born in 1952 and educated at Kawerau Central School and Kawerau District High School.

For 47 years, he ran Campbell’s Butchery, where she said he became known not only for “a good cut” but also “a good yarn”.

“Malcolm gave his time to everyone, no matter who they were. He was always willing to assist, advocate or connect people to others who could help.”

Campbell was first elected to the Kawerau District Council in 1995 and served as deputy mayor from 1998 to 2001 before becoming mayor following the retirement of the late Lyn Hartley.

Tunui said his achievements during more than two decades as mayor would “last the test of time”.

“He had a determined vision for the district to grow and thrive,” she said, pointing to housing developments, including the Porritt Glade Lifestyle Village.

She also remembered his personal warmth and mentorship.

“As much as Malcolm would give his colleagues or his apprentices a rev up, at the same time he was also known to quietly guide them too, letting through that cheeky smile when he was proud of what they’d done.”

In 2022, Campbell was elected to the Bay of Plenty Regional Council and was re-elected in 2025 to represent the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Regional council chair Matemoana McDonald said his death was “akin to the felling of a tōtara tree”.

“Its fall represents a profound loss to the entire community,” McDonald said.

She described Campbell as “one of local government’s great characters” whose leadership helped guide Kawerau through economic and social change while championing growth, jobs and investment.

“Malcolm was fiercely proud of Kawerau and deeply committed to the people who called it home,” she said.

“He was a straight talker, a practical thinker, and someone who understood how to bring people together to get things done.”

McDonald said Campbell’s long-standing relationships with tangata whenua were reflected in his work with the Rangitāiki River Forum and the Tarawera Awa Restoration Strategy Group.

“His commitment to partnership, respect for mātauranga Māori, and consistent advocacy for the health and wellbeing of the awa earned him deep trust.”

A celebration of Campbell's life will be held on Wednesday, 27th May at 11am. IMAGE // Local Democracy Reporting

Current Whakatāne mayor Nándor Tánczos said Campbell’s contribution to Kawerau was “extraordinary”.

“That level of dedication spans generations, and reflects both the trust placed in him by the people of Kawerau and the steadfast leadership he provided in return,” Tánczos said.

“Malcolm’s legacy is one of persistence, practicality, and a connection to the people he served.”

Former Whakatāne mayor Judy Turner remembered Campbell as “a strong leader with an astute eye on the future”.

“He loved the District of Kawerau and its ongoing potential was his focus,” she said.

Turner said while Campbell was “emphatic” in his views, he was also open to challenge.

“Agreeing to disagree on some matters without it damaging our friendship or ability to work together on other future issues was fantastic.”

East Coast MP Dana Kirkpatrick said she was “so sad” to hear of Campbell’s passing.

“A true stalwart of Kawerau and all it stands for. I will miss his wise counsel,” Kirkpatrick wrote in a social media tribute.

“Seven terms in Council and a serving Regional Councillor, the respect for you across the region is immense.”

Willetts Funeral Services said a celebration of Malcolm's life will be held in the Kawerau Town Hall, Islington Street, Kawerau, on Wednesday, 27th May at 11am.

“In lieu of flowers please donations can be made to Hospice E.B.O.P online or may be left at the service.”