20 November 1956 – 19 November 2025
20 November 1956 – 19 November 2025
Mooney Martin James: Martin’s life was tragically taken on Wednesday, 19th November, just one day before his 69th birthday. A service will be held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel, 46 Watson Street, New Plymouth, on Thursday, December 4 at 10.30am. He is survived by his sons William, and Vincent Mooney, and his sisters Rebecca, and Cynthia Mooney.
During this difficult time, words of support and love for the family can be left here on Martin’s tribute page.
In preference to flowers please consider a donation to NZ Surf Life Saving in Martin's memory.

Funeral service held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel
This poem is written by Cynthia Mooney SENSES FILLED Beacons of light Shining this night, dancing On waves not inches high… Lapping softly as I listen this night So calm, these soothing noises I hear Distant waffles of traffic Not disturbing, just unheard… The softness of the waves, Drowning unwanted interruptions From the soothing sounds I hear Drawn again, I am To the power of the tide Knowing it’s been too long Feelings of neglect, to my duty. My duty to I And knowing these powers Of the tide, this time I need… To spend here. Rocks on edge of sea With light bouncing off From ships in this night Like lovers in the midst Of something deep Something powerful. The water, ocean, sea, Whatever is, or perceives by me… Yearning, yes this I have To become one Dive in, glide like fish Like mermaid In these dark depths. Searching for sea-horse Sit astride Riding waves and currents Lying in beds of kelp and on scallop shell. As discreet and honourable As respectful to the waters I see She will take care of me… As I of her. Like magnetic charm Drawn again Revitalised from this unseen power Satisfied from noises heard Whispers of some kind of words From tide, lapping on shore. This darkness lit by saving beacon's Like ocean soldiers On guard this night. From moored boats these lights Like city lights Cast over, dancing over Ripples on the sea. My thirst quenched again My senses filled The strength, peace, smell and movement… All from oceans are far Once again it’s allowed me this time…to savour Away from Inner Hell!
SENSES FILLED written by Martin's sister, Cynthia Mooney Beacons of light Shining this night, dancing On waves not inches high… Lapping softly as I listen this night So calm, these soothing noises I hear Distant waffles of traffic Not disturbing, just unheard… The softness of the waves, Drowning unwanted interruptions From the soothing sounds I hear Drawn again, I am To the power of the tide Knowing it’s been too long Feelings of neglect, to my duty. My duty to I And knowing these powers Of the tide, this time I need… To spend here. Rocks on edge of sea With light bouncing off From ships in this night Like lovers in the mist Of something deep Something powerful. The water, ocean, sea, Whatever is, or perceives by me… Yearning, yes, this I have To become one Dive in, glide like fish Like mermaid In these dark depths. Searching for seahorse Sit astride Riding waves and currents Lying in beds of kelp and on scallop shell. As discreet and honourable As respectful to the waters, I see She will take care of me… As I of her. Like magnetic charm Drawn again Revitalised from this unseen power Satisfied from noises heard Whispers of some kind of words From tide, lapping on shore. This darkness lit by saving beacons Like ocean soldiers On guard this night. From moored boats these lights Like city lights Cast over, dancing over Ripples on the sea. My thirst quenched again My sense’s filled The strength, peace, smell and movement… All, from oceans are far Once again it’s allowed me this time…to savour Away from Inner Hell!
From the moment I met Martin nearly 30 years ago, he became a steady, loyal presence in my life. His kindness, humour, and quiet strength left a mark on every memory I have of him—each one filled with genuine respect and warmth. Martin had a way of making everyone feel welcome, of making me feel like part of the family. I will always treasure the countless weekends and holidays spent at the Mooney's—learning guitar and playing Magic: the Gathering with William and Vincent. Those times remain some of the happiest and most cherished memories of my life. Thank you, Martin. Willy
He was the kind of man who always carried a smile, no matter the day. Funny, genuine and always up for a good chat, he had a way of making everyone feel welcome. A good man with a good heart - remembered for the warmth he brought to every moment.
I wish to comment to and virtually hug, all the special family, friends and associates, for the warmth and love emitted at Martins memorial service and farewell yesterday, at Eagers Te Henui Chapel. To the speakers, bless you all and in particular my Sister Rebecca. You have been a champion, a rock and an anchor, not just to me, but to all. Kudos to you my beloved Sister! As in my verbal offering, near end of Martins farewell in the beautiful chapel that Eagars (Casey & Ross in particular) welcomed us and so divinely executed ( including a couple of foibles) , my voice/ unspoken words are returning.
Martin, you were such a kind, genuine and caring man. Thoughtful of others, a great sense of humour. The stewed apple king! A great and knowledgeable colleague. What the world has lost, now returned to the divine source. Shine bright Marty.
Martin, you dear, sweet, kind and generous man. The world was a brighter place for having you in it. It is heartbreaking for you to be taken from us so cruelly. Rest gently, cloaked in the love of all who were blessed to know you.
Martin was a treasure, such gifted hands for healing. A kind and caring soul, as many have said. Thank you Rebecca and Cynthia for a fabulous service full of wonderful stories and memories of a dear brother. Hold them near in the coming weeks. Condolences to you all. Sending you a virtual hug Cynthia as you are all hugged out. Fran Bateman
I couldn't believe that the man who was violently attacked was Martin. I was so shocked. He was such a gentle man. I had been receiving Bowen Therapy from him for around 30 years. I could never find anyone who could help me with pain like he did. I will be forever grateful to him. He even gave my mother treatment in the Rest Home at no charge as she was in the same place as his mother. After one treatment, she asked me when the nice doctor would be back again, as she got great relief from his healing hands. My Condolences to the Mooney Family Rest in Peace Martin
Martin was a great customer of mine when I worked at BP. We spoke about massage and how he was a carer for a Hungarian Man. A very gifted Man. Condolences to Martin's family. May the Spirit world treat him like Gold as he was here on Earth.
Couldn’t be there sorry would see him often around Puke Ariki
A knowledgeable individual who believed in so many other people, part of his superpower was being able to see the good in others and help them thrive. Thank you for everything you did to help uplift people out of their own woes in times of hardship. Your presence is sorely missed as you were one of a kind and left a mark on this world that will not be forgotten. Lots of love from me a
Awww man, so unfair! Sorry to hear of this and condolences to Martys friends and family. I cut Martins hair on an off probably around 10 years ago! We had some very interesting chats, back then and on many occasions out n about since, when ever he was popping past or if I saw him on the street we always had a tale and a yarn to spin. He will be greatly missed by all.
Such an intuitive, authentic soul your precious gifts were a healing balm for so many Martin. Rest in the arms of love. Sincere condolences to all the family.
I concur with many of the other tributes that have been made in memories of Martin's life. I met Martin 35 years ago through my friendship with his late mother Norma. After Norma retired, Martin took over attending to my injuries from a previous car crash. New Plymouth has lost a sincere and gentle man. My thoughts and prayers go to William, Vincent, Rebecca and Cynthia. Peter Moore
Sending condolences from our family. My sisters and I knew Martin as a kind loving man and we send you healing love at this terrible time.
Martin was a beautiful, gentle soul. His intuition and wisdom during the few Bowen sessions we had was remarkable. Sending condolences and aroha during this time of loss and grief.
Dear Marty, I have fond memories of listening to your musings while you sat and drank your caramel lattes. You had a perspective on the world that was hopeful and optimistic, often conveyed with a calm, thoughtful tone. I also enjoyed seeing the connection you had with the street whānau, your heart was ever full. I miss seeing your kind face around. Lots of love to you, my friend. Finn
I wish to offer sympathy to Martins sons and sisters at this sad time. I knew Martin through his Bowen treatments and I remember him proudly talking of his sons. I knew Martin to be the kindest gentlest person who was so skilled in helping others. Rest in love Martin.
R.I.P. Marty my friend 💯..I thank you for letting me stay with you after I got out. Such a kind man and a beautiful spirit, I'm very glad to have met you and got to know you.. rest peacefully Martin,fly high and be at ease you awesome man!! Love our memories/talks and drinks. Going to be different without you around my bro,R.I.P Marty
To Martys family So sorry for your loss Marty was a character & such a talented bowen/osteo healer, he helped my dog with his sore back Marty was a regular at Eightball when i worked there & i enjoyed listening to his amazing life stories & we had many games of pool He loved his boys & riding his bike Hadnt seen him for a while as id moved out of town but when i moved back id see him down the foreshore walkway & he always had a smile & a friendly wave Was a shock to hear it was Marty who had lost his life in such a terrible way RIP old friend, u were a talented man & will be missed
RIP Martin. Agree all other tributes. Loved our scrabble games. Hated how it was for you lately your demise & tragic end. Lesson for us all to watch out for our mates. You deserved better xx
I want to honour Martin today. I first knew him from our East End surf lifesaving days — training, laughs, and great memories. Years later, when I returned to New Plymouth, we crossed paths again, shared a coffee, and caught up. He was exactly the same warm, genuine person I remembered.I’m deeply saddened by his passing. It’s a tragic loss, and my thoughts are with his family. Sending them love, strength, and the biggest hugs.
My heart is heavy with sadness at the loss of Martin. Martin ,Rebecca,Cynthia and I grew up together on the Brown Road farm and those farm days are some of my most cherished memories which I will never forget.
Oh Marty, such a kind, gentle, intelligent and thoughtful soul taken in such tragic circumstances. I send my love and thoughts to your family who must be so heartbroken. I only knew you for a couple of years, chatting over a few cuppas in the cafe, but I always looked forward to seeing you and enjoyed your gentle presence. I cherish the last time we met - bumping into you in the Daily News cafe just before I went overseas, laughing at your banter with the cafe staff and sharing our mutual love of libraries. Rest in peace dear Marty, and I wish your family lots of love as they now navigate life without you. The world has lost a gentle, caring and much loved soul xx
To Martins family Sending you all love at this sad time. I met Martin through his mum Norma, and remember visiting her, sitting under the large tree in her yard. Martin would always stop and say hi when we crossed paths. I'm sure Martin and Norma will be working their healing energy for you all. Alyssa Murrell
Martin was an incredibly humble and gifted person and practitioner. The deep conversations we had over many years, were always insightful - his talent was unmatchable. Martin spoke so proudly of his sons and the connection he had with his family. I am very saddened to hear of this terrible news, my thoughts go out to Martin and his family.
Marty,was such a kindheart person,who cared about those he met, Marty my friend fly with the angels now.My condolences to your friend and friends
So very sad to hear of Martin’s tragic passing. From the East End Surf Club days training and competing together, to Uni days in Auckland, we have many fond memories of meals shared together and many, many laughs over many, many bottles of wine! A genuine friend with the kindest heart. Sincere condolences to Martin’s sons, Rebecca and Cynthia. Fly high, Martin.
martin was my neighbour, he was a very good lad. fly high martin🕊️🕊️
My dearest friend Rebecca, Peter & I would like to extend our deepest sympathy, to you and your family, for the loss of a very much loved brother, I would like to share with you a verse, that has been a great comfort to me at times sadness . The life of one we love is never lost Martin's influence, will live on Through all the Lives he's ever touched My thoughts are with you
My condolences to the Family of Martin. I loved Martin and have had admiration for his healing.he was a gentle and loving man. Gave his time when needed with knowledge and love .I'm sending my love and peace. Good bye my dear friend.
I moved to NP from the UK with my then husband Ted Cathew in the 70’s-80, both families were ex Taranaki farmers. We spent a lot of time with the Mooney family in Fitzroy. They welcomed me into their home and treated me as part of their own. Martin was just a young man training in the swimming/lifesaving, strong and healthy and hardly ever home. He was always a bit cheeky but a gentle and caring soul. It is heart breaking that he died in such a violent way as he was such a soft gentle person. My heart goes out to his 2 sons: William and Vincent, may they find the strength to get through this and find peace, also sending love and blessings to Rebecca & Cynthia may God give you all strength and surround you in love. Rest in peace Martin, you deserve it Tina Simpson (Pritchard) Reg. Naturopath & Medical Herbalist
Martin was a good neighbour when we first moved to New Plymouth for a number years. Very sad to learn that his life has been taken from him, his family and friends. Our condolences to William and Vincent. Love Simon and June
My friend, i will always treasure the memories we both shared, it will always be a blessing having you as a friend, i miss you marty dearly love you forever and always, Moe Mai Ra.
Martin and Wills and Vinney were part of our extended family when all of our kids were growing up. The Soles, Scotts and Kyles and for a time, the Mooneys. The boys are still part of our extended family group. I remember Martin as a kind gentle man with great talent as a Bowen practitioner. He has helped our family through many health issues over the years and I thank him for that. RIP Martin, be at peace. Our deepest condolences to. Vinney and Wills xxxxx
Martin, you worked on my shoulder injury and my back over many years. You were always able to relieve pain and restore mobility. I respect you for your gentle presence, your healing ability,and your amazing knowledge on many subjects. You were a truly decent human being and did not deserve to die in this way. What a shock! May you rest in peace.
I met Martin through the bike kitchen where he would come in now and again for help with fixing his bike. It was a privilege to work with Martin who was kind and gentle but also knew what he wanted sorted on his bikes. He enjoyed the banter and cheek in the workshop. It has been lovely to read some of the tributes for you Martin as we only saw you wheeling your bike into the workshop and wondering what has happened now! We will miss your visits. RIP Marty. Alan
Martin was a kind hearted friendly sole who was a very talented swimmer. He healed many people including myself with his Bowen technique. I often met up with him for a coffee at the Daily News cafe. Never a bad word against anybody. RIP Martin - you served your life helping others.
Martin was a gift to me when I was in pain. His healing and gentle way allowed my body to find peace and come back to health. You will be thought of with love for the many people you helped. R.i.P Martin.
Dear Cynthia, Rebecca and family, I've just heard the sad news and send much aroha to you all. I will always remember Martin as a kind, sensitive soul living in a harsh world. Never an easy ask. His gentle presence and expertise as a healer, to both humans and their pets, left a positive impression on so many, myself included. Thank you Martin for your important contribution and service. You get to rest now. You are all in my thoughts. Arohanui Cat x
Martin had such a kind and gentle soul and he touched the lives of so many through his healing. RIP My heart goes out to his family. Betina Ernegg-Marra
Rembered as a gentle, kind soul who moved through life with peace and grace. Thoughts are with his loved ones.
Words cannot explain on what has happened.. A good mate now gone but will never forget the good things we had in common.. farewell Marty my kids are going to miss your cheeky attitude and the humour & laughter we had with you...RIL x
Dear family of Martin Mooney .I send my heartfelt condolences to you in this difficult time .Martin helped me recover from an operation years ago .I used to go to him when he practiced Bowen technique and Osteopthy And enjoyed chatting with him He helped many people .Sending love and kindness to Martin's spirite
I'm so sorry this happened to you Martin, You were always so kind and helpful and I was always so thankful for the Bowen and Osteo work you did for me years ago. You had and still have people who cared about you as a friend and colleague and are grieving from what has happened.. Rest easy now and enjoy peace that now surrounds you. Sending Aroha to you Martin ❤️❤️❤️
It was such a shock to hear of your passing Martin. Never a bad word to say of anyone and always supportive. We trained together in swimming and surf lifesaving then you introduced your wife Gloria to me and I watched as you both brought up the boys. Many a drink and chat has been had over the years since. I wish you peace in heaven. Much love to all who loved you.
Martin was such a good friend to me when I moved to New Plymouth in 2003. We loved meeting on a Thursday at Momo's for sushi. He helped me finish cleaning my house when I moved to Guam and had sold my Gilbert St house. We did lots of yoga ,had plenty of meals and just had one of those special friendships that lives in my heart. His physical treatments were amazing, both Steve and I saw him periodically to work through physical challenges. We also bonded over swimming as my whole family are swimmers. He cared about my boys and supported me as a Mother and showed me so much care as a friend. I will miss you and thank you for such a special friendship. Sending lots of love and hugs to the family
So very sad Martin was tragically taken way too soon…. Martin and his Mum Norma were very helpful in my recovery when I fell down some stairs… their Bown treatment was instrumental in my recovery. Both had hands from the angels… 🙏 RIP Martin with your Mum.. you have earned your wings 🕊️
Martin your kind & gentle soul has created a wealth of affection in all of us who knew you. Rest in Peace.⚘️
So sad to hear of your tragic passing Marty. Thanks for all the insightful yarns & gardening tips. I hope the wine is forever flowing & you never lose your bike. Time to rest now gentle man 💜
Always a smile, always a laugh, always opened your home to my sisters and I. Thank you for your kindness it will forever be a part of New Plymouth and may your kindness be found in others who carry in your legacy at a time in the world when we need it most. Thanks for all the laughs
We are so very saddened to hear that Martin has died through tragic circumstances. He was the kindest, gentle and softly spoken man who over the years performed his Bowen technique on us. Martin, you will be sorely missed and may you rest in peace. Our deepest sympathies to your family Daralyn, Matt & Nate Read
The Mooneys and the Burnsides lived lives closely intertwined for the longest time. Martin, with Norma, a great healing comfort to my cancer ridden and dying sister Julie when she was only 16 and together they healed her and brought her back to life for another 30 years. Martin shared Norma's gift of healing and its clear by the outpouring of emotion and sadness that he had a profoundly beneficial effect on so many over many many years with osteopathy and Bowen. Surf lifesaver, scholar, philosopher, Karate black belt, its testament to his universal gentleness that rather than destroy he must've tried to reason but to no avail. We will miss him and remember him.

Funeral service held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel

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