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Kerry Smith, actress and broadcaster - Source: ONE News -
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Broadcaster and former actress Kerry Smith has lost her battle with cancer.
Smith passed away Wednesday after battling melanoma, MediaWorks Group Managing Director Sussan Turner said in a media release.
The Breeze FM presenter took medical leave from her role at the radio station in January, saying she wanted to focus on her treatment and recovery.
"Kerry was a respected broadcaster and a very treasured member of the MediaWorks family," said Turner.
"Our thoughts are with Kerry's family and close friends at this incredibly sad time."
The Breeze Programme Director Ian Avery said: "Kerry was a hugely talented radio host, the ultimate professional, and a dear friend.
"Listeners loved her, and her colleagues loved her dearly. She will be greatly missed."
Smith's broadcasting career spanned radio and television.
She starred in the late 1980s New Zealand television drama series Gloss as the character Magda.
She also hosted 1990s home improvement show Changing Rooms and New Zealand's Funniest Home Videos and was a founding member of the radio station, The Breeze.
Kerry Smith's family expressed their appreciation of the thoughts and condolences they have received today.
They will be respecting Smith's wish for a family funeral.