Former Manukau City Mayor Sir Barry CURTIS passed away on 30th March 2026, at the age of 87. A farewell service was held on 10 April at the Due Drop Events Centre. Abbess Manshin of Fo Guang Shan New Zealand was invited to offer Buddhist prayers and blessings for Sir Barry, joined by Venerable Rulian, Minister in Charge of FGS Auckland, President Yulin KU of BLIA North Island and BLIA members.
Sir Barry CURTIS remains the longest-serving mayor in the greater Auckland region. Over his 24 years as Mayor of Manukau, he dedicated nearly four decades of public service to the people of Manukau and Auckland. When FGS Buddhist Temple Auckland was being established in 2003, Sir Barry gave his wholehearted support. In 2007, when the Founding Master of FGS, Venerable Master Hsing Yun visited New Zealand to preside over the Temple’s consecration ceremony, Sir Barry was present to witness this important moment in history.
Nearly 300 guests attended the farewell service, including Minister of Health Simeon BROWN, former Attorney-General and Minister of Defence Judith COLLINS, former Auckland Mayor Phil GOFF, and former Manukau City Council Chief Executive Leigh AUTON. The service included Māori prayers, Buddhist blessings, tributes from family members, musical performances and video memorial presentations.
Abbess Manshin said that during his time as mayor, Sir Barry promoted community development and cultural inclusion, helping shape Manukau into a modern, forward-looking city. Abbess reflected on the meeting between Sir Barry and Venerable Master at FGS Auckland, describing them as two remarkable figures who rose from hardship and dedicated their lives to serving others. Though they came from different worlds, one in politics and one in religion, their meeting marked an important chapter in the establishment of the Temple in New Zealand and helped lay a foundation of truth, goodness and beauty for the wider community. Barry Curtis Park beside the Temple stands as a lasting symbol of his contribution to the community. Abbess Manshin also offered prayers that both Sir Barry and Venerable Master Hsing Yun would return through their vows to continue bringing blessings to the world. She then led BLIA members in chanting the Rebirth Mantra, offering sincere blessings for Sir Barry’s final journey.
At the funeral service, Minister BROWN conveyed the Prime Minister Christopher LUXON’s condolences. Former Prime Minister Helen Clark sent a written tribute, describing Sir Barry Curtis as one of Auckland’s most influential local leaders, praising his lasting contribution to Manukau and the wider Auckland community. Auckland councillor Maurice Williamson also commended Sir Barry’s integrity and kindness, saying he was privileged to witness his full term as Mayor of Manukau during one of the city’s most vibrant periods.
Sir Barry Curtis’s grandson shared that his grandfather was a joyful and warm-hearted man, someone who spoke with courage, showed deep understanding, and played an important role in the community. They felt fortunate to have received his grandfather’s love and care, and hoped to carry on his spirit.
Throughout his life, Sir Barry Curtis (1939–2026) dedicated himself to local development, community building, and public service. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, goodwill, and civic leadership, earning the respect and admiration of people from all walks of life. At the farewell service, those gathered remembered him with gratitude, gave thanks for his service to the people of New Zealand, and offered their heartfelt blessings.
