Twelve years ago, I arrived in New Zealand with a broken heart. It was through Gabe that I met the Herbert family. Dad treated me just like his own daughter. Every day, I would sit with him for a cup of tea or coffee, and I’d accompany him into town for errands and shopping. He would always arrange to meet me right outside my cabin at 6 sharp AM. Because it was such a long drive, I was always worried he might doze off at the wheel. Sometimes I would drive; when he drove, I’d stay in the passenger seat and chat with him the whole way. If he got too tired, we’d find a spot to pull over so he could nap before hitting the road again. Every Friday night, we’d hang out at the bar in Taranaki. Dad would introduce me to anyone he took a liking to as his "daughter from Taiwan," and he was even quite intent on finding me a partner. I will always remember his hearty laughter. I cherish the memories of gathered around the main house every evening with dad and Jo for dinner and conversation, and the "good night kisses" before bed. Dad and Jo—so warm and full of love—truly mended my broken heart. When I returned to Tangarakau two years ago, we saw each other again, and Dad was exactly the same as he was twelve years prior. I remember it was during the presidential election, and the news in New Zealand was constantly reporting on the threats of military action against Taiwan. Every day, Dad would tell me, "If you ever feel your safety is threatened, come back immediately. You are always welcome here." What character, that was the kind of person he was—cheerful, wise, loving, and warm. The moment I received the news today, I went online to book a flight, but there wasn't a single one that would get me there in time for the funeral. It breaks my heart that I cannot be there in person to say my final goodbye. Memories of our time together are playing like a movie in my mind, and I will be joining the service online to mourn and honor the man I love so dearly. Boom Chao

I have such wonderful memories of dear Bruce who came to Corrigin as a shearer so many years ago, married Joan, the matron of our hospital, and remained a friend for all the years since. He worked with my husband Murray as a shearing partner before returning to New Zealand. We visited Bruce in 1993 and he came back to see us several times in Corrigin. Murray would always ring Bruce on his birthday. Unfortunately Murray passed in 2022, but I have remained in touch with Bruce and his wonderful family. He rang me recently and asked me to visit. I wish I could have made it one last time. Will miss you our beautiful friend. I'm sure you and Murray will have a lot to catch up on. My love and thoughts go out to your wonderful family. Ruth Ward

Dear Sarah, James, Johanna and Rae, My heart goes out to you in sympathy and it is with much regret that I can't be with you on Friday 17th, to join you in saying your goodbyes. I know Bruce was (though 'techy' at times) a wonderful father. My husband, Bob, and I admired his concern to be not only a father, but also to take on some of Joan's role, as a mother - after she died in 1992. The subsequent lives of you, his children, attested (we thought) to his success. I know, also, that Rae became, in time, a valuable friend and support to you all - just as I know she came to look on you as her family. I know that Rae's relationship with Bruce has always been very special. You too, Rae, will find that Bruce's passing leaves a huge and very sad gap, in your life. Though I met Bruce nearly 40 years ago, I haven't been able to visit him for some time. Never-the-less, we kept a contact, occasionally on the phone and sometimes through the mail. I always had a soft spot for Bruce and maybe he had one for me? Though I cannot be with you in person on Friday, I will be there in spirit. In the months to come, I will grieve for the fact that I won't ever again, join Bruce in controversial banter, josh him out of a grumpy mood, or share a joke with him. But we have our memories and I hope that you can turn Friday into one of celebration. Rae and I have become great friends, over the years - I know that, together, we will often talk of Bruce and continue to celebrate his much-loved and unique character. I will send a donation to New Plymouth Hospice, in honor of Bruce's life and of the care that Hospice was able to give him, at the end. Much love to you all, Jo Edmunds

It was with profound sadness that I heard of your passing Bruce. To pay tribute to you and the effect you had in my life, the adventures I had over many years spent at Tangarakau and Kohuratahi would take a book – so many memories I don’t know were to begin. You came into my life when as a 16 year old. Alan and you invited me to work in your shearing gang for a holiday job. That was the beginning of a relationship with yourself and the Herbert family that has spanned 50 years. Before I left for the UK in 1979 I spent many days working on the Tanga farm with you, rousing, scrub cutting, fencing, moving stock etc developing a lifetime love of the Whangamomona district. You treated me like a younger brother and I saw you as an older brother, you were instrumental in shaping my views on life and imparting your wisdom. You were always a tireless worker, now is your chance to rest. Jane, Carole, Cherry and Joy send their condolences to the Herbert family.

Memories and stories surface and my memories of the whole Herbert family span 6 decades in our lives especially of our visits to their wonderful farm and early day stories of my husbands early life with Bruce at boarding schools My condolences to the whole family who I watched growing up and kept up with in our own ways. I appreciated being a part of this wonderful family and will always cherish the times we shared. My thoughts are with you all at this time.

Bruce was a man of incredible warmth. Every time we met, his words were so thoughtful and truly stayed with me. I feel very privileged to have known him. My deepest condolences to Simon and the entire family.

I have some fond memories of our family gatherings and child hood holidays out at Whangamomona with the Herbert boys and Janet .Rest in peace dear Bruce Marj Still nee Way.