A tribute to Councillor Malcolm Campbell from Chair McDonald

Ka tangi te tītī
Ka tangi te kākā
Ka tangi hoki ahau

As the sooty shearwater voices its presence
As the parrot voices its presence
So too do I

Kua hinga tētahi totara haemata, E te Rangatira, e Malcolm. Kua mutu tō oma roa, kua mutu tō rēhi. Ahakoa te mamae o te ngākau o mātou i runga tonu i te mata o te whenua, ka whai whakaaro nui mātou ki ō mahi.

Today, we lament the passing of a remarkable leader. Malcolm's departure is akin to the felling of a tōtara tree, a symbol of honor and significance in Te Ao Māori. Its fall represents a profound loss to the entire community. Therefore, we honor him as a mighty tōtara.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Chair Matemoana McDonald has paid tribute to Councillor Malcolm Campbell, describing him as one of local government’s great characters, a tireless advocate for his community, and a man whose wisdom, pragmatism and compassion touched countless lives across the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

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

“For 27 years in local government, including 21 years as Mayor of Kawerau, Malcolm stood up every day for his community. He was a straight talker, a practical thinker, and someone who understood how to bring people together to get things done.

“Malcolm belonged to a generation of local government leaders who believed relationships mattered. He built strong connections across communities, iwi, business and Central Government, always with the goal of improving outcomes for the people of Kawerau and the wider Eastern Bay.”

Known nationally as a determined and highly respected provincial leader, Malcolm guided Kawerau through periods of significant economic and social challenge, while continuing to champion opportunities for growth, jobs and investment. He played a leading role in initiatives to strengthen Kawerau’s economy and future direction, while never losing sight of the people at the heart of the community.

Chair McDonald says Malcolm combined toughness with genuine care and empathy.

“He could be forthright and incredibly sharp, but underneath was a huge heart. Malcolm cared deeply about people. He was always there for those doing it tough and he never forgot where he came from or who he represented.

“His long‑standing relationship with tangata whenua has been central to his work, reflected in his valued contributions as a member of both 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.

“His knowledge of Kawerau and the Eastern Bay was extraordinary. He understood the region from every perspective - social, cultural, environmental and economic - and people respected him because he spoke with authenticity and experience.”

After standing down as Mayor in 2022, Malcolm continued his public service as an elected member of Bay of Plenty Regional Council, where he remained a passionate and unwavering advocate for Eastern Bay communities.

“He brought enormous experience and perspective to the Regional Council table. Malcolm never lost his focus on people and place, and his advice was always grounded in common sense, honesty and care," says Chair McDonald.

“On behalf of councillors and staff at the Regional Council, we extend our deepest condolences to Malcolm’s family, friends, colleagues and the Kawerau community, who meant so much to him.

“Malcolm leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service, leadership and aroha. He will be deeply missed.”