Almost 500 people turned out to pay their respects to elder Sam Jackson.
He was a prominent person in Wellington who helped in every way he could.
He was at the fore front of his tribe's Treaty negotiations. He was also awarded a Member of the NZ Order of Merit for his contributions to his community.
In his tribute to his grandfather, Jason Williams said, “I have dreaded the day when the family loses you and have often woke up crying from nightmares about us losing you. This time this nightmare is real and I don't know how much I try to wake myself up and have you back here. It’s not going to happen.”
He was a prominent leader in this city, and had welcome dignitaries from all over the world.
In 2010, he welcomed Prince William while he was visiting Wellington.
He leaves behind his wife, June Jackson, their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.