John when we first met in the 1970’s you were an inspirational teacher and a talented artist who made a huge impression on me. Your philosophy and zest for life was grounded in the simple things, love friendship and living from the land. It was a joy to see you share these values with Chris and as time went on your growing family. It is disappointing that Sandra and I will not be able to be with you as you embark on your final journey. Travel well my friend your legacy is immense Nga mihi Ces and Sandra Hill

Sending my loving thoughts to Chris & all the family. A wonderful man, a true good guy who meant a lot to a lot of people. John is forever in our hearts Much love Bry

Dear Chris and family, We are deeply sorry to hear about Johns sudden passing. Your family gave us such a warm welcome when we just arrived in this country and we are forever grateful we met you and John. He was a remarkable man! Our heart goes out to you at this difficult time. Andy and Veronika

Mein liebes Fräulein Meister, I'm very sorry and saddened to hear of John's passing. That very special Sunday afternoon in February we were so privileged to spend with you and John on your mesmerizing Mimi farm will stay with me forever. His captivating tale of the The Farmers Wife And The Farmer laid bare what a witty, thoughtful and generous man he is. My thoughts are with you in these difficult times and send you aroha and hugs.

Dear Chris and Family So saddened to learn of Johns sudden passing.Such a shock for you all. He had many talents and was such a special husband,father,grandfather and friend to many. Those we love dont go away-they walk beside us every day. Loving thoughts to you all Colleen and Tony Bardell.

To Chris and family, I met Chris and John in 2019 when I was traveling New Zealand from the UK. They were my first HelpX experience and it could not have been better. From all the many many HelpX profiles, something drew me to Chris and John. I got a reply instantly and was on my way to their beautiful home the following morning. I was greeted with the warmest response and they took me in like I was their own family. I remember John's positive presence in a room, with a great sense of humour and a beaming grin. I felt welcomed, safe and so looked after whilst I stayed with them both. I have a lovely memory of sitting out in the sun with John after having lunch and chatting about life in general. He was so wise and I was/am in awe of his life morals. I also admired the love he had for Chris and the rest of the family and also spoke so highly of everyone. I was there a week and it is such a distinct and happy memory of my travels. Chris - I send you so much love. I am so grateful to have met both you and John and I appreciate everything you did for me. Best wishes. Ellie

Dear Chris and Family, So sorry to hear of the sudden loss of John. A magnificent man. May friend and family embrace you with love and support, as you navigate the loss of one on the greats. Our love and hugs to you and the family. Kath & Tony Kellaway xx

Rest in peace Great Uncle John. Your passion for your craft and your family was evident. We are so proud to be related to you. Your lasting influence on my brothers and I,as well as countless others, was profound. What a legacy. You are deeply missed already.

Dear Chris and family. I'm so sorry and deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of John. John's friendship with Evan, and indeed the friendship of you both, was an important part of our ongoing connection with Taranaki. You have both been much in our thoughts over the years. Although we only saw each other infrequently, the importance of that connection in those formative early years cannot be underestimated. I have often thought of you both in the last months since Evan's death in May. Chris, I send you my deepest condolences and trust that the strength of family and friends that you and John have nurtured over the years will support you through the months ahead. What a wonderful man John has been, an example and inspiration to so many. He has left a wonderful legacy and example for others to follow. My love to you and your family, Margreet VIssers

To Chris and Family Sad to hear of Johns passing he was such a talented man, when I was younger! his wood working skills inspired me and gave me inspiration to create my own path and style in building so I will be forever grateful to him. Will also treasure my chook painting thinking of you all. Haydn Evans

I have known john since I was a kid. John spoke at Dad's (second) wedding and funeral, and drew the last portrait of Dad, after he died. John was one of Dad's most valued friends. My mother's too. John was a special man, and a hugely important figure in my family's life. He was interested in so many different things, and able to laugh at life... a chuckle was seldom far away. He had a sense of the ridiculous, and immense integrity and maturity. I really cannot believe he has gone. This isn't a great photo, but it shows John, Dad and I at Wai-iti Beach maybe in the late 1970s. John has just been for a swim.

The first artwork I saw when I arrived in New Plymouth was John’s triptych at Puke Ariki. I was in awe and taken aback and said to Nik I wished down to my bones I could paint like that, wished I could tell a story with that depth. I’ve never been able to pain like John, not even if I copied every brushstroke. He brought out something beautiful and primal in his works that was his alone but it represented a shared storyline we could all connect to. I loved his work with a passion but I admired the man even more. He had the ability to put you at ease, to make you feel like part of the family even at our first meeting. I liked him, how could you not – relaxed but full of creative energy, brilliant and unassuming, welcoming and giving at every level. He wasn’t pretentious but so genuine in himself and his passions that sharing them with him was such a gift. He was a person that without demanding it garnered respect. He will be dearly missed. My heart goes out to Chris and to his family.

While my heart is somewhat heavy at the loss of John, it also sings for the life he had and his many outstanding achievements, not all of which he did alone. With you Chris, an amazing family was raised. To Kirsty, Juliet, Gregor and your families, I see that all carrying on. And then there was John's painting, his art. That speaks for itself and John's life. I send you all my love and hugs, Tony Kuepfer

Dear Chris and extended family Your star and John's shone brightly in those glorious days at Hamilton Teachers' College so many years ago. They had not dimmed when Barb & I caught up with you both at Urenui in 2013 after another HTC Reunion in New Plymouth. Your creation in establishing your wonderful enclave at Urenui including John's studio was a wonderful achievement. We are so very saddened Chris by John's sudden passing and we send you our deepest love and sympathy at this time of sorrow and grief. With much love, Barry & Barbara Hill

John, I miss what I didn't know. Our brief time, you as a teacher, and me as a student, in 1987, the first intake for the Applied Art and Design course at Taranaki Polytechnic (The Polytechnic was breaking new ground with teachers like yourself, Tom Kreisler, Fiona Clark, Donald Little, ?? Ewbank, ?? Clegg, Howard Tuffery). Within every class you brought a positiveness I've always admired. It must be ingrained in teachers of art, as it inherently comes from an all-encompassing love of what you do. I found that same approach in my late High School Art teacher Roger Taberner. At the time your ultra-realistic paintings of "chooks in a yard" encouraged me to create a large ink and pencil sketch of a wired fence with kawakawa leaves and my pet dog. It took me ages! Your motivation was always there John. We (Dean, Helen and myself) visited you at Mimi Farm way back then and again we were in awe of what you had created - both in your studio and this concept of communal living. I left for Wellington the following year and it was not until recently we caught up over Facebook. I loved reading about your travels through the Middle East and your poignant post about a young Shepard boy with a huge smile upon his face, so happy with his place in life, devoid of the trappings of the digital age and social media. I would have loved to have sat down with you again and chatted over a glass Pinot Gris. When I visited New Plymouth, especially in January, I'd always walk past the Te Kupenga Stone Symposium and hope that I could catch your eye. I would have loved to have shared our stories; hunting and fishing, travelling, the work we've both done, and the risks we've taken. I hope you would have been impressed with what I've achieved. Much Aroha to Chris and family, Howard Tuffery and all that new John more than I. You've had a special gem in your life that would have added a great many things I'm sure of that. Clear as you go John, much love. Greg Cockerill

Dear Chris and family, I was so sad and shocked to hear this news. I have such fond memories of our friendship over the last 50 or so years. John will be so deeply missed by you all. Sending my loving thoughts, Dulcie

Liebi Christine, dear Mc Lean family, we will never forget your kindness when we were new to NZ, you brought us cucumbers and trusted us to house sit your wonderful home in Urenui. John has been an example to me in how a human can trust what he can give to the world. We send you all of our love from Switzerland and are with you in our hearts ♥️ Alles Liebi!

To Chris and family We were saddened to hear of John's passing. Although we only met a few times it was enough to impress on us what a beautiful man he was. I'm sure he will be missed by everyone whose lives he touched. John was such a talent who achieved so much in his life and yet came across as untouched by his success, an inspirational person. We wish you all the best at this time and into the future, go well, our love to you Doug and Sue

Grateful to have experienced Johns wonderful kindness and extraordinary creative talent. Love, Glenys, Sabria, Zahn and Mr Plod

Meeting and spending time with John was one of the highlights of my time working at Puke Ariki. What a magnificent artistic talent -- I so admired the courage he had to evolve his practice, and to follow his deep intuition with his work. I have a very special memory of John at his opening at Puke Ariki -- I continue to treasure it. And what a magnificent man -- so incredibly generous, welcoming, curious, thoughtful, intelligent and kind. That big smile. Those big hugs. He'll be so desperately missed. Chris and family, Mike and I are holding you in our hearts, and sending all our love to you. Ruth

Dear Chris & family Words cannot express how sorry we are for your devastating loss…….John was such a unique and gifted artist who gave generously to our community both of his time and his talent, but most importantly he was a beautiful man….he was such a great mentor and friend to Jordan, and for that we will be forever grateful…..much love to you all.

My Dear Chris and family, like everyone we were shocked and very sad to know we had lost John. Although I had only met you once in my lifetime your warmth and love shined through. Bill loved the brotherly banter they regularly over Facetime and will miss those times very badly. May you and John's children find peace living with the wonderful memories of your lifetime together

Chris & family, Absolutely gutted to hear of John's passing, I am so proud to have met him and to call him my friend. All it took was a bottle of Japanese whisky, heaps of Southland cheese rolls and an All Black test. God we had a great time that night..! I shall miss you terribly old mate and wish you that you R.I.P because you have sure earned it. Sending love to the McLean family. Muzz - Clyde, Central Otago.

Moe mai ra e hoa. Teacher, builder, family man, community advocate, musician, artist, mentor You'll leave at huge whole in the various communities you were involved in. To Chris and whanau our love and condolences. Arohanui Wayne, Sarah and Stu ( who treasured the time you spent with him)

We think back to those formative years we spent together at 'Hamilton Teachers' College,' with John involved in writing, in athletics, in music, in soccer, in art, and generally, his talents shone through in many of the vast options available. However, his most notable achievement of those busy years was in connecting with Chris, who became, his 'best-friend-for life'... Our thoughts are with you Chris, and our love goes out to you, and to all your family at this very sad time. It has been our privilege to connect with you both over the years at gatherings, and reunions, and to follow the wonderful life and family that you've built together.. As we sit in our little spot, on the other side of the world from the 'TeHenui Chapel,' we are fortunate in being able to join you in celebrating John's life, through the livestreamed broadcast that we hope to access.. Our love and thoughts are with you Chris (and family)... Guy & Jen...

I feel privileged to have known John and even more honoured to have his art on my wall. Know that I will always treasure it and the memories it evokes. His personality, wit and creativity just shines through it. I remember with fondness our times together and am thankful for the advice and fun times. You have my thoughts and all my heart. I am so sorry for your loss Chris and family.

My deepest sympathies for your sudden and very sad loss. Cuzzy John always added such brightness and fun to our family gatherings. I remember back when Buster and Peg and John and Billy lived just around the corner from us for many years in Tauranga. We didn't know then what a truly amazing and talented artist he would become. It is wonderful that his artistic talent will continue on in the next generations. I am very much going to miss his Facebook posts of each new painting he created. John will be dearly missed by so many. Lynda and David.

Heartfelt condolences to you and your family, Chris. Fond memories of a very talented and thorough gentleman.So enjoyed being your “neighbour” while I was at Mimi school! May your precious memories of John help you all through the sad times ahead Fond Regards Mary

We were so sorry to hear that John had passed away suddenly. We recall his gentle and ironic manner-his humour and honesty. We remember those times at teacher Training in Hamilton and over the years our connections at reunion and friends gatherings . We extend our genuine remorse and condolences to you Chris and family -such a shock at the loss of your soulmate and life partner.. Colin and June Crabb

the painter leaves the canvas Arohamai Chris Whanau Moko moe mai ra, matua John Mclean chrissie alex noble-lindsay

Dearest Chris, Juliet and family I came to know you and John during a transformative period of my life in Taranaki. What a pleasure to share time and space with all of you, none more so than John. I really was inspired by the man. We shared a lot of commonality and John was nothing short of equal measure of wisdom and humour and the warmest of smiles and greetings when we crossed paths! What a gifted artist too! A pleasure to know him! I send my deepest sympathies to you on his passing. I know he will be dearly missed but what an impression he left on life and the people he met along the way! A true gentleman, a Legend Diarmuid Cahill 🇮🇪

Deeply saddened to hear of John's passing. A fabulous artist and a lovely man who has made a huge contribution to the art world. My thoughts are with you Chris and your family. So very sad to hear. 🙏

To Chris. So sorry to read of John's loss. I really enjoyed catching up a couple of weeks ago and having a chat - you both looked great and just how I remembered you! Thinking of you and your family. Be gentle on yourselves, and treasure the good memories. "He is not lost, just gone ahead home before you"

Sad news of a mate from Tauranga Boys High School. A surfing buddy who shared our first attempts in the waves of Ocean Beach Mount Maunganui, followed by our Teacher Training at Hamilton Teacher's College Melville, and John's first postings to Gisborne and then Tauranga South Primary where he met and told me he loved Chris. Once married they headed to Auckland where our lives' journeys diverged. A talented guitarist / singer and creative artist, I have not forgotten John or the fun we shared all those sixty years ago. Please accept my sincere condolences Chris. I remember.

John was my inspiration as a young artist I visited his studio many times. I dreamed of having his talent and wisdom. He kept painting through the hard times, he’s still my role model. What a beautiful family I came to know and love. Incredible man - still dreaming about having just half his talent and wisdom. Live on through your paintings. XxJane Mitchell

So sorry to hear of the sudden passing of John.It was always an honour to catch up and hear the many stories that John had to share and to see his art work evolve from the chickens which we loved to the fisherman’s art work and also reading his book. arohanui Chris and family from peter and karen stewart

Our McLean family is not that large so losing our cousin John leaves a huge hole. He was such a generous spirited man with whom we always enjoyed spending time. We will miss him greatly. Family reunions will never be the same.

John such an incredible loyal caring talented Man who was so generous with his talent time and friendship. We feel very honored to have your artwork in our home we will miss our catch ups so much loved your friendship you will be deeply missed heartbroken for you Chris and family ❤️

Our love & condolences to Chris & whanau - so sorry we are overseas at this time Chris. John & Chris have been a very special part of our lives at Mimi. Our properties are separated by river and sea but it has been the shared love of these that has forever entwined our lives.Even though a generation apart - it never seemed that way.Shared beach walks,fishing trips,and many river swims while always enjoying John's "ready to go"humour and exuberant outlook on life has and will always remain a treasured memory.His passion for life,his art and his love of the land and sea and all things "Mimi". John's love for his family & friends was so sincere and his man hugs will be missed. Adios our friend...you've left us to soon,we will miss you,but we will never forget you. Greg & Keren & Casey & Jack Earp

Hello McLeans, I am incredibly saddened to learn of John's passing and I can't imagine Mimi without him. You all have my deepest condolences, I wish I could be there in person to pay my respects, instead sending you Love and Hugs from afar while he lives on, smiling in our memories. Arohanui nui

Dear Chris and extended family. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. We are currently overseas and so shocked to hear of John passing. A strong and influential man who has given so much to so many through his art, written word and personal input into numerous aspects of humanity. We are so privileged to have shared these gifts and sympathise now for you. Love Marg and Max.

John was a splendid artist and a splendid man. His contribution to Taranaki art was significant and sustained. We admired him for his commitment, his moral and professional integrity, and his warmth. Much sympathy to Chris and all the whanau. David and Beth Hill

Kia ora Gregor, Alice, Noah, Jo and Maisie We r so very very sad for you and your whānau to learn of the sudden death of your dad and grandad. We’ll b thinking of you all and send our love and thoughts. Take care of everyone, sending massive hugs. Ka nui te aroha - ka moe koe kei Raro i te Maunga Taranaki i te rangatira. Kearney - Parata whānau Waikanae

So very sorry to hear of John's passing.Feel very privileged to have known him,and your family.Our most sincere condolences to you all.Anne and Ken Decke

A mighty oak has fallen. We remember John fondly for the warm, talented, funny and highly creative man that we had the good fortune to know. His loss is felt by all that knew him and our heartfelt thoughts and love go to Chris and the family.

So very sad to hear about John's passing. He was an amazing and extremely talented person. We love his beautiful artwork and enjoyed reading the interesting book he wrote. Lots of love to Chris and family. Our thoughts are with you.

Your art fills my home. Thanks for your wise words and kindness. Lots of love to Chris, Kirsty, Juliet, Gregor and whanau. The painting was Mums favourite. John really enjoyed seeing it again when he called around recently.

Chris and family. Very saddened to hear of Johns passing. A very warm, talented and generous man who has touched the hearts and souls of many people. My thoughts are with you and your family.

John, the legacy of your brilliant art lives on forever, not to mention your highest and best purpose of finding your soul mate Christina and creating your awesome family and impressive life. I enjoyed your energy and stories sprinkled with your cheeky wit. Thank you for being my friend. Blessings to your family at this sad sad time. Arohanui John.

He was a wonderful human being who brought so much love and kindness to all of us .. we love you John and you will always be just a moments memory away. 💝⚘

So very sad to hear of John’s passing, what a wonderful, generous and talented man. He will be missed by all, none more than his loving family. Our deepest sympathy Brent and Maree

So sorry to hear about John a totally best mate to my late brother Keith and a great friend to the wider Nicholls whanau. I used to love hearing him Keith and my other brother Geoff sharing a yarn or two lots of fun and laughter. Big hugs to Chris and family. John was truly a very special person and extraordinary talented artist

To Chris and the family let me express my deepest condolences and send you love and wishes at this very sad time.I often think back to the time we spent with you both when you were building your house and the time after it’s completion.I also enjoy looking at John’s paintings of the white cliffs on my wall on a daily basis.

Myself and Rowan are so sad to hear this news. We are proud to be owners of some of his beautiful work and enjoyed listening to John and Chris and their stories. What a magnificent man. Our hugs to Chris and family xx