Popular radio host Andrew Leiataua dies

Well-known More FM Taupō breakfast host Andrew Leiataua has died.

Mediaworks Taupō and Rotorua general manager Emma Long says it is a shock to everyone he knew.

“It is with an incredibly heavy heart that I am writing to share some profoundly sad news. Our dear colleague of over 30 years and More FM Taupō breakfast host, Andrew Leiataua, passed away suddenly yesterday due to an unexpected medical condition.”

Andrew’s family shared a brief statement.

“Our beautiful Andrew was an incredibly private man whose greatest love and devotion was always reserved for his family.  Behind that beautiful velvet voice so many people knew and loved was a husband and father with an enormous heart, a fierce love for those closest to him and an unwavering devotion to his family,” the statement says.

 “His love for Leanne, Kyzsana and Bronson was at the centre of everything he did every single day. We will miss his presence, his strength, his crazy Dad jokes and, above all, the extraordinary love he gave us every single day.  Our world is shattered and will never be the same without him.”

Emma says Sean Dykstra will be on air from Monday morning from 6am, where no doubt there will be many tributes to Andrew from his loyal listeners.