Brian McLAY Obituary

Dear Judith and family, on behalf of the New Zealand Geographic Board Ng Pou Taunaha o Aotearoa, we offer our sincerest condolences for your loss.

Brian was a member of the Geographic Board for 13 years up until December 2005. In his resignation letter to the Minister for Land Information, he said “I do want to record however my unequivocal support for the Board members and the staff with whom I have had the pleasure of working with over the last thirteen years. I have learned so much and hope that my contribution has not disturbed folk too often!”

In typical Brian fashion, he also mentioned to the Minister his relevant qualifications that helped him serve the Board and the public of New Zealand, “Seven years as a District Land Registrar in Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay and a thorough knowledge of land descriptors of various types; seven years as Deputy Secretary of Internal Affairs [which then included Historical Publications], Local Government [territorial authorities also have certain naming responsibilities and are often involved in applications to the Board] and Civil Defence [conflicts in names are dangers in emergencies]; seven years as Chief Executive of [now] Local Government New Zealand and thus a significant knowledge of local authorities; a law degree; and over forty years [passive] membership of the New Zealand Geographical Society Inc.”

Quite an impressive set of skills which have not been replicated by any Board member since. We were privileged to have Brian’s wisdom and expertise. He made a significant contribution to the Board’s decisions on place names, which endure in the public arena and will not be forgotten.

Rest in peace Brian.

From Wendy Shaw, Board Secretary

Dear Judith
I was sorry to see Brian´s death notice in the paper. Thinking of you at this sad time. Sincere condolences and kindest regards.
Sandra Worthington

Judith and family,
Thinking of you on your sad loss of Brian, good memories of our times in Napier Jaycee with you and Brian,
Bev and Graham Steere

Judith and Family - our deepest sympathy to you all. We have known you for many, many years - 41 years of which a lot of those years were as neighbours. We have fond memories of you and Brian and all the family. Sad time for all. Hugh and Anne