Dame Elizabeth Ann D.N.Z.M - Crsnz (Dame Elizabeth) Hanan

In 1994, I attended the 125th anniversary of University of Otago, and went to the Ball alone. I met a couple there and asked if I might dance with the woman. Thus I met Elizabeth and Murray. I was very impressed with what I learned about them both, especially Murray's art and Elizabeth's museum and science advocacy. Later I was able to congratulate her on her Royal appointment. Later again she and I were both awarded Companion of the Royal Society of New Zealand. Whenever I met her in Wellington she would invite me to travel to Dunedin at the time of the International Science Festival. When finally I did, she greeted me by asking what brought me to Dunedin, and my reply was that she had asked me to come. I delighted in attending, and also to view Murray's art at the old Railway Station. My mother, an artist, used the phrase "I've been hung" whenever she had a painting accepted for display. I only occasionally visited Dunedin, and each time I would arrange a delightful luncheon with them both. I greatly appreciated their company. I now live in the Philippines, and learned of the deaths of both of them, as I attempted to track them down a few days ago. My sympathies to all the family and friends.

Elizabeth provided a warm welcome when we moved to Dunedin. She could be very persuasive, 'encouraging' my involvement with the NZ International Science Festival. She told great stories, often with a wicked sense of humour, and we had many enjoyable chinwags. Elizabeth was an inspiring source of wisdom, advice and support. I will miss her.

Dear Jude and family, Sending my deepest sympathies for your loss. Sadly I never got to meet her, but having you as her kid(s) is a pretty amazing legacy. Wishing you love and support. Sarah

I met Elizabeth at French conversation classes, where she kept us entertained with stories of her travels and every day encounters. Elizabeth was always lending a helping hand or supporting people as they settled in or overcame an obstacle; challenges that might have proven too much for some people were opportunities for Elizabeth and she had an uncanny way of finding solutions. I remember her as a kind and thoughtful woman who always had a gleam in her eye, a word of advice to offer, and an intriguing tale to share. Merci pour ton amitié, Elizabeth.

I have very happy memories of our times together walking the tracks around Queenstown and Arrowtown with Murray and Geoff White when we both had holiday homes there. Since then she has always welcomed me and John during our annual visits to Dunedin from Taupo - cups of tea, biscuits and a bowl of water for the dog. Will miss our cheery visits. Rest in peace Elizabeth.

Greetings to the Hanan family, I have known Elizabeth over 70 years since we were at OGHS and also both lived in Maori Hill. Our fathers were both at the Dental School so the families came to know each other well. She and I were debutantes, along with our very good friend Diane, and were later at her wedding to Murray. Elizabeth worked hard at projects she was interested in, was a lovely friend and always had a great sense of humour. She was kind and helpful and I have so many memories of good times together at Arrowtown, Dunedin and Wanaka . She dealt with health adversities in recent years with amazing fortitude, along with caring for Murray and keeping up with friends. My condolences and love to all the family, especially Jenny, and thankfulness for the privilege of knowing Elizabeth. XBarbara

Elizabeth was a dedicated member of French classes at the Alliance Francaise for many years. She was an interesting and interested participant, and her enthusiasm, energy, and community spirit were evident. She certainly added a lot of vibrancy to the group which was appreciated by everyone. She made a big difference. May she rest in peace. Thinking of the Hanan family. Pauline (Alliance Francaise de Dunedin)

It's many years since Dame Elizabeth was a city councillor, but I was always very impressed with her refreshing sense of purpose, and her determination to bring the projects she initiated or supported through to fruition. She was held in the highest regard by councillors and staff alike,