Popular New Zealand television presenter Nigel Latta has died aged 58 following a brave battle with cancer.
The much-loved clinical psychologist, author and broadcaster passed away surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, a year after doctors told him that he had months to live due to an inoperable and incurable tumour in his stomach.
His family confirmed the sad news by sharing a heartbreaking tribute on his Facebook page on Wednesday.
‘Farewell my great love. You were never dying, just living until the moment you weren’t. You fought cancer with enormous bravery. You’ve spent your life helping others in need. And now it’s your turn to rest,’ his wife Natalie Flynn wrote.
‘Nigel passed away with the same dignity and positivity that he carried through life.’
Latta leaves behind his wife Natalie, his daughter Rina and son Kieran from his first marriage, and three stepchildren.
Described as New Zealand’s best-known psychologist, Latta was the face of many television programs, including popular crime series Beyond the Darklands.
He also hosted several parenting and science programs.
Latta’s last Facebook post was to promote the new Parentland app he had developed with his wife, who’s also a psychologist.
His death sparked an outpouring of tributes led by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
‘Like so many Kiwis, Amanda and I read his books on parenting when our kids were younger,’ he said.
‘He had a remarkable ability to connect with people through his writing and broadcasting with empathy, humour, and insight.
‘Our thoughts are with his family and all who knew and loved him.’
More to come
