I felt a great sadness hearing of Brian’s passing yesterday afternoon. I first met him when I was managing New Zealand’s overseas aid programme to Samoa, and he was an Associate Minister of Education.  His interest and feeling for the Pacific was obvious as was his passion for education.

Our real bonding was during the aftermath of the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification.  Brian was NZ First’s person on GM, and I was Marian’s Advisor.   We spent a lot of time discussing and negotiating.  Brian was not prepared to simply take a position, he wanted to understand the issues and find a practical way forward.  Together, we grappled with the intricacies of xenotransplantation and other such heady topics, and I gained a huge respect for him.

It was during the Civil Union Bill debate that I really saw Brian’s humanity.  He had stated early in the debate that he supported civil unions, but as the pressure on MPs from those opposed increased in intensity, stories appeared in the media that indicated he was wavering.  Brian and I had never discussed my sexuality or my support for Civil Unions.  I wrote him a personal letter outlining my reasons for supporting the Bill, and hoping that he stayed strong.  His heartfelt response to the letter showed his kindness, his belief in human rights and dignity for all.  His support for the Bill did not waver, and his friendly wink to me on the day of the vote indicated all was well.

Brian was a superb human being.  New Zealand is the better for his contribution and commitment, and I am the better for having known him.  Rest in peace.