Council acknowledges passing of Kaitāia community leader

Far North District Council acknowledges the passing of Monty Knight, a well-known and respected Kaitāia community leader, local politician and businessman.

Mr Knight was a former Far North District councillor who was elected in 2010. He later served as a councillor for Northland Regional Council after winning a by-election in 2015. His passion for local politics remained strong – he stood as a candidate for Far North District Council in the October 2025 elections for Te Hiku General Ward.

A successful businessman, Mr Knight was best known for Knights the Jewellers, which had stores in Kaitāia and Kerikeri, the award-winning Okahu Estate winery and an appliance store in Kaitāia.

Kahika Moko Tepania said the loss of such a long-standing Far North community and business champion was tragic. “We send our thoughts and prayers to Monty's whānau, and our wider community affected by his loss. Moe mai rā e te rangatira, e okioki i te aroha o te Atua.”

To acknowledge his passing, flags at Far North District Council offices will fly at half-mast on the day of Mr Knight’s funeral.