Eastern Bay mourns the death of Margaret Mahy
The Eastern Bay community of Whakatane is mourning the loss of one of its greatest daughters.
Born in Whakatane, in 1936, Mahy was working as a librarian when an American publisher spotted one of her stories in a children's journal. "It was one of those romantic things that happen," she said of her discovery.
Winner of many of the world's major children's prizes, including the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen medal. She was also awarded the Order of New Zealand for her internationally acclaimed contribution to children's literature, which ranged from picture books to short stories and novels. "It is in the nature of books, that they have the capacity to make you feel powerful about what you can alter and achieve in your life," she once said.
Though Ms Mahy spent most of her life in Canterbury she always called the Eastern Bay home.
She always described the blooming of the Puhutukawa tree's at west end in Ohope, the beautiful surroundings and the smile and friendliness of the people.
Prime Minister John Key today expressed his sorrow at the passing of Margaret Mahy ONZ, one of New Zealand's best-loved authors.
"She is widely acknowledged as one of this country's finest authors, and one of the world's greatest writers of children's and young adults' stories. says Mr Key.
"I would like to extend my condolences to Ms Mahy's family and friends at this sad time,""I am sure her stories will remain firm favourites among children here and overseas for years to come." Says Mr Key.
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"She is widely acknowledged as one of this country's finest authors, and one of the world's greatest writers of children's and young adults' stories. says Mr Key.
"I would like to extend my condolences to Ms Mahy's family and friends at this sad time,""I am sure her stories will remain firm favourites among children here and overseas for years to come." Says Mr Key.