Whakatāne District Mayor, Dr Victor Luca would like to acknowledge the passing of former Whakatāne District Mayor John William (Jack) Gow who passed away last week.

Mr Gow served as a councillor for 10 years (1976-86), including six years (1980-86) as Mayor of the Whakatāne District.

Mayor Luca says Mr Gow’s passing is a loss for all those who loved him, but he leaves behind a legacy of public service that they can be hugely proud of.

“On behalf of Whakatāne District Council I want to acknowledge his contribution over many years and send our aroha and sympathies to his whānau and friends.”