Former Wellington City Missioner and trailblazer passes away

The Wellington City Mission and local community are mourning the loss
of its former City Missioner of 17 years, Sir Desmond Britten, KNZM, who passed
away overnight.

“I extend my sincerest and heartfelt condolences to Sir Des’ family,
his two children and friends.” Says Murray Edridge, Wellington City Missioner.

“Sir Des (also known as Father Des) was an iconic Wellington
trailblazer. He was Wellington City Missioner from 1994 to 2011, and was well
known for bringing his own unique flair and flavour, vibrancy and energy to the
role. He was a well-known Wellington figure, with a flamboyant personality.

“His love for Wellington started right back from when he used to run the
Wellington Coachman Restaurant and bring in warm meals on the weekend to feed
those in need.

“I know that he was very proud of the structured programmes he
introduced to The Mission, and at the very heart of his work, was his
unwavering desire for The Mission to be a “real force for good” in Wellington.

“He was immensely passionate about helping those in need, and has laid
down a legacy that he can be proud of. May he rest in peace knowing that his
legacy will be remembered and continued.” Says Murray Edridge.

Sir Des was previously vicar at St Barnabas Church, Roseneath. He ran
the Wellington Coachman Restaurant for 28 years, was a columnist for The
Dominion Post for 14 years, a television chef and radio host, and was author of
several cookbooks. In 2011 Sir Desmond received a Knighthood for services to
the community in 2011, was appointed as a Canon Emeritus in the Diocese of Wellington
as well as being named Wellingtonian of the Year.

E te rangatira, moe mai, moe mai, moe mai ra.

“We’ve just got to keep focused and think of others, because if
we don’t it’s going to be a very sad world in which we live.” – Sir Des
Britten, 2011.

ENDS

Media contact: Kieran Meredith, 027 879 2336