The loss of the beloved Kiwi actor Sam Neill offers Australians a moment of reflection on our deep relationship with our trans-Tasman cousins.
A New Zealand actor friend said the star,who died unexpectedly on Monday in Sydney,had been sick with the lung infection recently.
There were set visits where he would greet you open-armed with a disarming smile. Occasionally,too,there were conversational jousts.
There were many warm-hearted moments as well as tears during the state memorial service for the former Australian of the Year.
“It is with immense sadness that the whānau[extended family group] of Sam Neill share the news of his passing,” a social media post announced.
A state memorial service honours a truly honourable Australian.
Dr Katie Nicoll,widow of Richard Scolyer delivers her eulogy at Richard Scolyer's state memorial.
Follow the state memorial service for Professor Richard Scolyer as it happens,right here.
The former Australian of the Year will be honoured at Sydney Opera House on Monday morning.
The man who loved being in love,the women who shared the spotlight with him,and how the 82-year-old life of Derryn Hinch was,in the end,a love story.