The community has lost a real stalwart who has given all for the benefit of others.
He has been involved with numerous community groups offering a wide variety of services involving an incredible amount of personal and family sacrifice.
Being so personable made visits to the Whitianga Grocery shop in the early years a pleasurable experience and his support of the school was certainly appreciated.
His contribution to the Council was immense always taking a leading role and offering knowledgeable insights and thought to the many issues discussed. He was focussed on positive outcomes for the community and the residents of Mercury Bay. It was a sad loss for the local Council when he completed his tenure.
Noel and his brother were instrumental in setting up the Whitianga Bike Park requiring countless hours of voluntary labour and the raising of finance. Many folk today benefit from this fine facility which has continued to develop. And attract increasing visitors. This outcome would have been so rewarding for Noel to witness.
Noel made a most immense contribution over many years to the Museum Trust Board. His input was valued by all and the museum benefited in many ways from his foresight and ideas.
While I was teaching at MBAS, the Hewlett family were always active assisting in a variety of ways determined to see the best for both their fine family and the school in general. The many fine attributes and values Noel exhibited were also evident in the family members both in school and later years. It was so noticeable how proud Noel was of his family’s achievements and how proud they were of their dad.
Noel’s contribution in the service organisations is well known and respected and appreciated by not only members but the wider community.
What stands out in all my dealings is how compassionate Noel was for family, the town and its future.
You will be missed ‘bigtime’ Noel. Condolences to the family. Such a sad loss RIP
