Dearest Laureen, How I’ve always been delighted at the thought of time spent in your company. It’s 55 years since Russell and I first met you. Whilst you have led a very inspirational life of service in the public sphere , I was also inspired by your quiet greatness in times of huge challenge. Your sense of fun and mischief, which I saw you access when I could not have. You were forever young in attitude sharpness and presence of mind., When last we met although it had been years we chatted and spilled over into laughter as if no years had passed. . Life threw you some tough challenges, that’s when I was particularly inspired by your qualities, the essence of you. You were vulnerable brave compassionate and resilient, still reaching out in generosity to care for one of our daughters whilst another was born. Sandra Craig and Robbie (Nia) we are so very grateful and privileged to have known and loved your wonderful “rebel” Mother…. and may you be comforted in her passing by fabulous memories and feeling her presence when you need to. She is never far away. Mary Pool

Love you Laureen. X

Ahhh Laureen how many times were you swamped by the influx of gaggling mums and kids in Nia's whare! You were unphased by the throng, I think you may have even been able to tune us out which is no mean feat! I think of your reflections on my garden work every time I'm up the hill thinking 'Laureen will approve of this or that' as I go. So glad to have met you, come visit me in the garden I could use the feedback. Much love Nia and Sandra, Tris, Roger, Ava and Dot.

It's not often you meet someone who you know will touch your life forever, but that is what happened when I met Laureen. It was such a privilege to know her, hear all her wonderful stories about her life, work and her family, and learn a thing or two from her - about living life to the full, being honest, having respect, humour, and always showing kindness and compassion. I will miss you Laureen, and I will never forget you. Thank you for all the giggles and chats. Go well.

So sorry for your loss Craig.. Your Mum was a kind and compassionate soul… always there to help… always remembered.

Laureen was the best boss I ever had and rescued me from all sorts of ineptitude. Laureen ,Sue and I became friends as well as co workers and that friendship lasted to the present day. She loved her children and Grandchildren. She will be missed

A beautiful Lady.Graig`s mum it was a honour to call you mum.Thank you for all our talks . You will always be in my heart.God bless you. Fay Clement.

Sorry for your loss Craig

You were not only Mum & Dads “fun” friend to my brother Pete & I. You were family to us & we all loved you. Rest in love Aunty Laureen, I will think of you often and smile for the lovely memories you have left. PS…. I promise not to eat standing up anymore.. Love and strength to you all through this tough time & weeks to come. xxx

Sandra, Craig and Robbie (Nia) and families. So pleased I called in and saw Aunty Laureen last month when home for a visit - Lovely lifetime memories from the time I was flower girl at Aunty Laureen’s wedding until most recent visit. The end of an era. Always remembered. Sending love and hugs to you especially at this time; Karen & Richard

Thanks Mum for the love and care you gave. I will think of you every day. I looked forward to our little chats over the last couple of years sitting down at The Whakatane Heads just watching people as we did on Friday late night shopping nights back in Rotorua when I was a young teenager RIP Mum and Nana We will forever love and miss you.