Ali'itasi (Tasi) Lemalu

This is a much-belated tribute, as I only learned of Tasi's death through her obituary in the Otago Daily Times yesterday. I was privileged to work with Tasi for several years in the late 1990s at the University of Otago. One of the papers that I was then teaching was "Christianity and Culture in New Zealand and the Pacific", and Tasi joined me to teach the Pasifika side of this. She was an inspiration to work with, and I (as well as our students) learned a lot from her knowledge, warmth, and embodiment of Fa'a-Samoa. Tasi contributed hugely to the success of the paper, which was one of only twelve 100-level papers across the entire University to receive a 100% rating from students in the OUSA "Anti-Calendar". It was particularly popular with American exchange students, who will remember her fondly (as I will also). Tofa and Malo lava, Tasi. Brett Knowles

Our sincere condolences to the Lemalu family. We were very sad to hear the news of Tasi’s passing. We will remember her fondly. Such wonderful neighbours to us when our family lived in Mornington. Sending lots of love to you all at this very sad time.

Ah Tasi. I have just found you passed away while I was browsing the funeral directors website. I am sorry we lost touch. I went around the world and thought of you at times, my mother also spoke of you, you are with her now. I know how sadly missed you will be. I'll see you on the flip-side soon. The Lord's My Shepherd, and yours too. God Bless you and your family.

Tasi was a wonderful lady who will be sadly missed by so many. My heartfelt thoughts are with Foalima and family.

Dearest Tasi, Mother figure and friend to me and many staff during her years of devotion working at the Otago Polytechnic. I was unable to attend the service yesterday, but watched it online. A fitting farewell with such gratitude shown for Tasi. Foalima, I had only met you a few times, but I knew that you would cherish and look after Tasi to the end. Big hug to you. Jonathan, your mum was so proud of you and your lovely wife and children, you gave her much joy. Selena, Tasi's girl, she was so proud of you and your achievements. She let her birds fly from her home and flourish. What a legacy she has left in the both of you. Not to mention all her community work. How did she ever find so much time to give. I have thought about your mum often over the years since leaving the polytechnic. Community.studies dept, was a special time, where we all supported each other. Many lovely memories. Tasi, very very fondly remembered and loved. Ngarie Harper xxxxx

We send our sympathy to you, Tasi's family at this sad time. We are thinking of you all.

Tālofa lava. All at the Dunedin Community Exercise Programme at Unipol in Dunedin were sad to hear of the recent passing of our beloved Tasi. Tasi and Foalima have been coming to this class for the last 12 years and it has been our pleasure and privilege to know them. Tasi had an enormous heart filled with love and compassion, all at the class got to know who she was and her care, warmth and determination to keep active was an absolute inspiration to us. Her welcoming and unconditionally accepting hugs alone kept some people coming to this class! A story I might share if I may be so bold was that during an education class from a Dietitian we were hearing some healthy eating tips and I clearly remember Tasi accepting much of the advice and guidance but clearly and vocally ruling out that she would ever stop eating the skin off chicken as this was simply the best bit! Tasi was both gentle and caring and a force to be reckoned with, with a clear vision and determination. On a personal note I valued Tasi's wisdom and guidance. On numerous occasions she would notice that I had things on my mind, perhaps before I noticed them myself, and would help me understand what might be the next best step forwards. Thank you Tasi for your contributions towards this class and the role modelling of essential compassionate life skills. You will be remembered fondly by us all. Soifua manuia Manuia lau malaga i le lagi From Chris Higgs and all staff at the University of Otago, School of Physiotherapy and Unipol Recreation Services, and all participants at the Dunedin Community Exercise Programme.

Heartbroken to hear of Aunty Tasi's passing. A strong beautiful woman who was an inspiration to many of us. I had the privilege of being on the National PAG with some of the most amazing Pacific Leaders. Ia manuia lou malaga. Alofa atu x

My sincere condolences to all the Lemalu family on the sudden and sad passing of your cherished wife and mother Tasi. I remember and celebrate Tasi's fine partnership with my dear friend Eti Laufiso as they worked tirelessly and so positively to enhance life for their Samoan community in Dunedin. Their commitment was exemplary. Your loss is great - ourDunedin has lost a fine woman . My prayers are with you and the Samoan community in your loss. Rest in Peace dear Tasi Jan Hughes, Maries Godmother

Please accept my deepest sympathy on the sad loss of Tasi. A great wife and mother. I have very fond memories of her as a JP plus the support she gave to the Samoan communities. It so happens we both received the MNZM back in 2006. Sorry we can’t make her funeral but our thoughts and best wishes are with you all.