Very sad to hear about the passing of Marty. Our kids from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Nga Mokopuna are coming to honour him tomorrow, he was always so lovely to our kids x Ka aroha ki te whanau pani, rest in peace Matyy x

The Winkels and Faheys grew up together our parents were involved in so much together and it brought us together. When I started taking my residents to the hydro pool I reconnected with Marty. Forever a connection, taken way to soon, rest easy 🙏❤️

I met Marty recently at Tawatawa - He really loved it there was always so easy going and friendly to everyone and could talk about anything - but especially about little Alfie. Just last week I remembered I knew him from Kilbirnie Pool again always a smile and a laugh A nice person - he really did love dogs and they really did love him.

I never met Marty but friends with him online for years I loved his photography 📸 and love of the sea - has thought one day we’d probably meet on the South Coast - I am so very sad to hear he has passed away and that we will never have that opportunity

What I’d love is just one more big warm hug Marty hug. Meeting you when I was 17 was a blast - you were The Winx, loved by all. You were warm, welcoming, kind, and genuine. Thank you for being so awesome to my lads Lachlan and Joel for all the years we visited the pool - we miss your joyful and loud greetings! Thank you for your beautiful photos - a true reflection of your deep-thinking self. Rest in peace my friend and say hello to Rosie.. xx

Friendliest face to welcome us at the pool, always a smiling face

Martee was the life of the party at the pool. He always showed so much compassion to every customer and colleague, if a child forgot their money he’d wave them through with a smile. His gentle ways were often a comfort to those who knew him. Martee, thank you for the laughs and encouragement over the years. We will miss you RIP e hoa

Your amazing photos, your epic surfing, your smiling pool welcome, but mostly....those bus rides I survived!!

I and my family loved seeing your friendly smile at the Pool. It isn't the same without you. I will miss our catch-ups at the supermarket. I like others was hoping for a different outcome. We will miss you Martin.

Dear Winx I'm so sad to hear that you have left us. I was 17 when I first met you and have so many memories. You were such a support to so many of us always giving us a place to stay when we needed it, a hang out to watch surf videos and party. The lyall bay surfing community has lost a great man. My 3 kids loved seeing you at the pool, I will miss our catch up's. Sending love to your whānau during this sad time. Love you Winx, thanks for the memories Cristie💙

Aww no, I just met Marty and Alfie at Tawatawa dog park this summer. We walked the whole back track together and chatted about dogs and life along the way. He was great company, I so enjoyed swapping stories. He really loved his little dog.

We had lots of fun times together when we were kids. I am glad I was able to say goodbye. Rest in peace Martin.

Oh Marty! I’m so sad to know I won’t get an opportunity to hear your infectious booming laugh and wry smile. The beautiful photo captures you so well. You taught me to enjoy wine, the beauty of the Wellington South Coast and the other places we explore - I have a special memory of our South Island trip back in 2000. I’m sorry we never did get to catch up for a fine wine again. xo Cathy

Here’s what I would say. I’ll be quick as requested!!! Thank you for teaching me to swim - for the one terrifying driving lesson - for making your geeky sister instantly cool (Winx’s sister!) - for letting me live with you - your amazing photography , for always making everyone and anyone feel welcome. It was your superpower. You were the cool brother the cool uncle. Just can’t believe that you are no longer part of our lives. I will hold all those wonderful memories close to my heart Suz n Holly xxx