Former TV presenter and radio show host Danny Watson has died after a short illness, aged 73.
Watson died peacefully on Thursday "surrounded by whānau and deep aroha", his family said today in a statement.
"To many across Aotearoa, Danny was a familiar voice and face, who brought warmth, humour, and genuine human connection to television screens and radio airwaves for decades. But to us, he was the heart of our whānau."
It continued: "Danny lived life with boundless energy, generous spirit, and an extraordinary capacity for loving people. Danny made everyone feel seen and valued.
"We are profoundly grateful for the kindness, care, and support shown to Danny and his whānau by medical staff, the North Harbour Hospice, friends, and the wider community."
The media personality got his start on children’s TV programme Spot On, followed by a stint behind the scenes of another classic kids’ show, What Now?
It was his "boundless energy" that made Watson a perfect fit for radio, where he hosted Newstalk ZB’s Afternoons from 2000 to 2015.
Beside his long and illustrious career in media, Watson's family said he was passionate about Te Ao Māori o Waitaha, Ngā Puhi Kaumātua, Seido karate, and beekeeping – among many other endeavours.
His loved ones said they would take the time to “grieve and celebrate his incredible life privately”.
In lieu of flowers, the whānau asked people to donate to hospice.
"In Danny’s honour, we encourage you to do what he did best: share a good story, check in on a neighbour, and hold your loved ones close."
'Greatly missed'
In a statement, Newstalk ZB owner NZME said it was "deeply saddened by the death of Danny Watson, a much-loved voice on Newstalk ZB for more than 15 years".
NZME chief executive Michael Boggs said Watson was "a big part of the Newstalk ZB family and his loss will be felt right across the company".
"Many of our people worked alongside Danny over the years, and today is a very sad day for all of us at Newstalk ZB and NZME," Boggs said.
"Danny had a real gift for connecting with listeners, and for so many New Zealanders his voice was part of everyday life. He was a wonderful colleague and friend to many here, and he will be greatly missed.
"So many of our team loved catching up with Danny at our recent ZB 100-year celebration, and all our thoughts are with his wife Teresa, their children, his wider family and friends."
Watson is survived by his wife, four tamariki and six mokopuna.
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