Peter HORSLEY Obituary

My sincerest condolences to all Peter´s family.
I know from the photos Peter displayed in the living room, that you were always in his heart. I hope you can all take comfort in his achievements and presence in your lives, as well as so many others.
Peter was a wonderful person who made a lasting contribution to the world he loved so dearly. His diverse interests, endless curiosity, and deep understanding were an inspiration.
To me, he was a teacher, mentor, and friend for nearly 30 years.
We met at Massey University when I did a part-time Masters degree in Resource and Environmental Planning, including his planning law course. From there a friendship developed from our shared interests in Chinese philosophy, experiences in developing countries (India and Fiji particularly), and the environment in general.
Towards the end of my masters degree, I commented to the head of the planning department that I had a new respect for the law. The professor said, "Oh, that´s because of Peter." I said, "No, I understand the principles better now." But the professor may have been right. Peter made the law and everything else relevant, interesting, and full of possibility.
Visiting Peter was always a treat. His bookshelves overflowed with wondrous ideas. His walls were decorated with interesting pictures. And the conversations that occurred with him, and occasionally other friends of his with equally fascinating backgrounds, covered topics that it seemed could only happen in his company
At times, I found pursuing an environmental career challenging and disheartening. He was always able to provide new perspectives. I never failed to come away from chats with him with a reading list and renewed enthusiasm.
On a recent visit, after he could no longer drive, he asked me to take him to some sites around Whanganui that were connected to him and his family. We almost got my electric hire car stuck in the sand at the beach (my fault, not his), but as always, his stories made the landscape come alive.
I was very fortunate to exchange emails and talk with him by phone shortly before he passed. He was positive and curious to the end.
He will be sorely missed, but his inspiration will endure.

Matthew Griffiths
Brisbane

To Peter's family, he was a beautiful human being. Our world has lost a special person. My deepest sympathy to you all.