A legacy: Tributes for Efeso Collins
A legacy of compassionate leadership
The news on Wednesday morning of the sudden passing of Green MP and Auckland politician Fa’anā nā Efeso Collins at a fundraising event was devastating. It is far too soon for a truly good man committed to people and communities.
Growing up in South Auckland, Efeso became the first in his family to graduate from university when he completed a master’s degree in education. A career in education, research and social work followed, and he entered local government as a member of the Papatoetoe Local Board followed by another six years on Auckland City Council. He was outspoken, and at times faced harassment, but he kept at it.
After missing out on the Auckland mayoralty, in 2023 he was elected to Parliament as a Green MP.
Giving his maiden speech less than a week ago before his death, Collins would discuss his life and aspirations, from the need for Parliament to engage with everyone, for support for those needing it, and his desire to listen and act. Acknowledging the weight of the task ahead, he’d quote James Baldwin, “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”
His result in the mayoral race in Auckland in 2022 was evidence that our local democracy in New Zealand favours certain demographics who are more likely to participate. Despite a massive effort by Efeso, many of his potential supporters simply didn’t vote and have their voices heard. We need to reflect on that and work towards a more inclusive system.
Efeso was a kind, principled, incredible, and inspiring human being. I had the privilege of meeting with him and chatting while we were both on the campaign trail in 2022, and he made himself late for his next appointment so we could continue our conversation. It was such a moment of feeling supported and valued.
He was warm, professional, and determined. Many people will be reflecting on similar interactions. His social work improved and saved lives and his advocacy for those left behind in Auckland and more broadly will be equally missed.
“If I was to inspire anyone by getting to this House and my work over the next three years, I hope that it’s the square pegs, the misfits, the forgotten, the unloved, the invisible — it’s the dreamers who want more, expect more, are impatient for change, and have this uncanny ability to stretch us further.” — Fa’anā nā Efeso Collins