Council mourning the sudden loss of Councillor Richard Crawford

The Western Bay of Plenty District Council whānau is mourning the sudden death of Maketu-Te Puke Councillor, Richard Crawford.

Richard passed away earlier this morning after suffering a heart attack while out biking on Saturday 30 March.

Western Bay Mayor James Denyer says he and fellow councillors and community board members are shattered by the news.

“On behalf of Council, I want to express my deepest sympathy to Richard’s wife Julie, and his family, friends and loved ones. The news of his death is a huge shock, and his passing will be felt keenly by his colleagues at Council and in the wider Te Puke community.

“His contribution at Council and previously on the Te Puke Community Board was significant and his commitment to community organisations in Te Puke was much valued. He will be sorely missed.”

Richard was currently in his first term as Maketu-Te Puke Councillor, elected in 2022 as one of four new councillors. This follows one term as Te Puke Community Board chair (2019-2022).

“Losing someone so unexpectedly is hard to grasp and this will take some time to process. Richard was a hugely respected member of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council whānau and his passing leaves a big gap,” says Mayor James.