Taupo Mayor pays tribute to Meads

Taupo Mayor David Trewavas says the late Sir Colin Meads has had a huge input into the Taupo sporting community.

Sir Colin ‘Pinetree’ Meads passed away at the age of 81, a loss which has been felt widely throughout the rugby-playing world.

Meads was a popular figure in New Zealand and abroad, even decades after his outstanding playing career ended.

Taupo Mayor, David Trewavas, said what Meads has done for the Taupo district has been immeasurable.

‘‘He always came at the drop of a hat to speak at functions,’’ he said.

‘‘Anything that’s been good for the district or good for rugby in the district, he’s been there.’’

Meads was one of the Taupo ambassadors for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

He travelled around Wales and Ireland with Taupo deputy Mayor, Mike Downard, and Trewavas who was the King Country Football Union CEO, to promote Taupo as a destination for the Rugby World Cup 2011.

As a result of this tour, the Tuwharetoa under 15 invitation rugby team played against visiting under 15 team from the Rhondda Comprehensive School District in South Wales.

From 2011-2013 Meads lent a helping hand to plant native trees at Whakaipo Bay.

The planting project was dedicated to a rugby legend from the region – someone who made a significant contribution to rugby in New Zealand and Meads planted alongside hundreds of other volunteers.

Meads was also instrumental in Taupo becoming part of the King Country Union and worked with Owen Delaney to build up the union.

‘‘He was very supportive of that,’’ Trewavas said.

‘‘Even though he was from Te Kuiti, he spent a lot of time here promoting the town.’’

Trewavas wanted to pay tribute and thank Meads on behalf of the Taupo community.

‘‘We just appreciate the time and effort he put into this district.’’

Working with Meads is something Trewavas will treasure.

‘‘I worked with him for three years. We were in my car every week going around to jobs .

‘‘It was an honour and a privilege to work with him.’’