Governor-General pays tribute to Sir David Gascoigne, respected lawyer and arts advocate

Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro has paid tribute to Sir David Gascoigne, who died at the beginning of the week.

Sir David, a respected lawyer and former judicial conduct commissioner, died at his home on Monday, aged 86 years old.

He was the husband of former Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy, who preceded Dame Cindy in the role.

"During Dame Patsy's five years as Governor-General, Sir David was a constant presence at her side, supporting her in her service to New Zealand. I will always be grateful for the generosity and graciousness Sir David and Dame Patsy showed Dr Davies and me as we prepared to take up our roles at Government House," Dame Cindy wrote on social media.

Sir David was recognised as a passionate advocate for the arts.

The Arts Foundation - Te Tumu Toi said Sir David's support helped shape "some of our country's most important cultural organisations", including the New Zealand Opera and the New Zealand International Festival of the Arts.

"His belief in the value of creativity and the people behind it leaves a lasting legacy," a spokesperson wrote.

The New Zealand Film Commission highlighted his work on the legislation which established the Commission and his 15 years on the Commission, including eight years as chair.

"His contribution continued well beyond NZFC. He later chaired the New Zealand Film Production Fund and led its transformation into the New Zealand Film Heritage Trust - Te Puna Ataata, helping safeguard the rights, materials and legacy of New Zealand films for future generations."

The Aotearoa Festival of the Arts said Sir David was a founding trustee of the Festival Board in 1986 and, as chair during the 1994, 1996 and 1998 festivals, provided "invaluable strategic oversight and financial leadership" for the early decades of the festival.

"Sir David understood the vital role culture plays in the life of a city and a nation. His thoughtful leadership helped strengthen the foundations on which the festival continues to build today."