The HUNT Obituary

Jonathon Hunt was one of a kind. As the coach of the 6A, KBHS rugby team in 1965, he was the most inspiring coach I ever had. Even though most of the team knew more about rugby than Jonathan, his sheer enthusiasm, positivity and sonorous vocal support from the sideline was second-to-none, and a continuous source of inspiration. The team became known as the "glamour team" (a sobriquet of Jonathon's) after 10 wins in-a-row, including over Kings College in the semi-final; but lost 0-11 to Tamaki in the final, owing to a much smaller forward pack. In Jonathon's role as a teacher, I would never have known that a university education was possible without his encouragement, endorsement and help, and I know that was the case for many other students. He opened our minds, challenged us to think of new possibilities and make something of our lives. He entered politics in 1967 to help people, and I believe he made a difference to many people's lives, so what more could you ask of a politician or anyone?

To the family of Jonathan- our love and condolences to you all on the passing of such an inspirational and well loved man - Aunty Pam, David and family, Cynthia and family, and family of the late Rodney

Condolences to Philippa and Judy. Jonathan was our neighbour at Parklane Apartments in the city for a number of years when he returned from London. We have very fond memories of him. Sally and Bil

Johnathon was a more-prominent member of the Hunt family, one of the great families of NZ led by Lucas (a giang bluff and cheerful man) and Allie (equally cheerful, and a dab hand at wall-papering) and comprising Johnathon, Robert, Judy and Alison(?), all of whom were/are the salt of the earth. It has been a pleasure to know them.

Grateful for Johnathon's help in obtaining valuable historical material for a research project I undertook many years ago. I note that Johnathon has set up an award at the University of Auckland for an outstanding student in politics and international relations. A generous gentleman with his time. Fondly remembered.

We would like to acknowledge Jonathan Hunt, an enthusiastic, inspirational, caring and somewhat eccentric school teacher who encouraged pupils in his fourth form class at Kelston Boys High School to earn sufficient money through 'bottle drives', holiday jobs and nefarious other activities, so that in the sixth form he guided them on an extensive tour of seven Southeast Asian nations. This was, in 1967, a remarkable initiative which added an extraordinary dimension to our West Auckland education. Jonathan, thank you.
Wayne Andrewartha, Ross Ardern, Colin Binsted, Bruce Church, Alan Cocker, Bruce Dove, Ian Eckford, Graham Eklund, John Gardner, Peter Kendall, Jim Hatton, Stuart Howard, Tony Moores, Dougall Rolland, Karel Witten-Hannah.

I remember when he helped his father.in the Stationary shop in Balmoral.

Sending sympathy & thoughts to you all.
I was so grateful for the tutoring Jonathan gave me in history when I lost my notes at AGGS. A patient teacher.
Special hugs to my lovely friend Philippa from Marion (Burnett) Watson

Not only an MP but before that, a popular teacher at Kelston Boys' High School, Auckland, who made learning Latin fun. A man of many talents. R.I.P.