HARTLEY, Barry Alexander QSM:

Barry Alexander Hartley, of New Plymouth, passed away peacefully at Summerset Mountain View on 19 January 2026.

Barry was the much-loved husband of Patricia Hartley (who predeceased him in 2018), dearly loved father of Shane and Chris, and father-in-law of Jenny and Diane. He was a treasured grandfather to Michelle, Bianca, Nicholas, Andreia, and Kendra, and a proud great-grandfather to Kahu, Chayce, Stony, and River.

Barry lived a full and remarkably active life, marked by service, curiosity, and deep commitment to his community. He spent many years with the New Plymouth Fire Brigade, serving with dedication until his retirement. In later years, Barry pursued his passion for the natural world, becoming a self-taught yet highly respected ecologist, ornithologist, and biologist.

His knowledge and commitment led him to serve on the Taranaki/Whanganui Conservation Board, the committee of the New Plymouth Underwater Club, the Rotakare Scenic Reserve Trust, and to provide valued advice on numerous ecological and environmental matters across the region.

In recognition of his wide-ranging interests, expertise, and service to the New Plymouth and wider Taranaki community, Barry was awarded the QSM (for Public Services) in 2006 and a New Plymouth District Council Citizens’ Award in 2019.

Barry remained engaged, active, and intellectually curious throughout his life, right up to his passing. He will be remembered with great affection and respect by his family, friends, and the many people and organisations he supported over the years.

Messages to the Hartley Family may be left on Barry’s tribute page at eagars.co.nz/barry.

A private cremation has been held.