Te Papa's Blog

Te Papa is saddened at the passing of Sir Howard Morrison, and extends sympathy to his whanau and friends.

Over a long and distinguished career, Sir Howard brought great pleasure to many with his fine singing voice, and his ability to charm and entertain.

New Zealand has lost a consummate entertainer who had a special connection with Te Papa. At the opening of the Museum on 14 February 1998 he sang the national anthem and also concluded that special day by singing “Now is the Hour” at midnight.

The Howard Morrison Quartet also featured in Te Papa’s first online exhibition Maori Showbands.

“He was a seminal figure in the early days, influencing many of his peers….. In an historical sense all roads lead to, and from, Howard”

(Tainui Stephens)

We’re working to get this fabulous website back up, in tribute to Sir Howard. Let us know if you support this!

Tributes have flowed in for Sir Howard and you can find many of them online:

NZ Herald coverage of today ‘s funeral

Biography of Sir Howard Morrison from NZ History Online

Film clips on NZ Onscreen including a wonderful documentary from 2002 “The Sir Howard Morrison Story” which includes Sir Howard’s explanation of his special connection with Tuhoe

Finally, here is the great man, singing one of New Zealand’s favourites “How Great Thou Art”:

This video clip is sourced from the YouTube website. Te Papa does not claim any responsibility for the contents or copyright status of the clip.