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Allan Peachey - Source: Fairfax
National MP Allan Peachey died yesterday after a long battle with cancer.
The Tamaki MP died at his North Shore home at about 11am. He was 62-years-old.
He was diagnosed with cancer five years ago and was in remission. He had been doing well until doctors found a small tumour in July.
In September Peachey told the East and Bays Courier he had been given the all clear and was on the mend.
However, Peachey's electorate agent Murray McKinnon said today that he took a turn for the worst last weekend and knew by last Monday that he did not have long to live.
He says the MP of six years will be sorely missed.
"He was a fantastic guy to work for," he said.
"He has made an enormous difference in the electorate, particularly in the area of education."
Prime Minister John Key took time out of campaigning in New Plymouth today to pay tribute to Peachey and to express his sorrow at his passing.
Key says he made a huge contribution in the education area.
He said Peachey was determined and sometimes aggressive in his cause, and was not afraid to challenge the caucus.
Prior to becoming Tamaki MP in 2005 he spent 13 years as principal of New Zealand's largest school, Rangitoto College.
Peachey pulled out of this year's election last month, saying at the time that he was disappointed he couldn't stand for a third term.
"I didn't quite know it was going to end here. I had a terrible year," he said.
The MP started 2011 with a collapsed lung and then had problems with his wisdom teeth before doctors found the cancer in July.
"This year has taught me that I'm not as strong as I used to be."
Peachey said he was proud to have been part of some exciting changes in the electorate.
"I'm really excited by the improvements at Selwyn College and the work I've been able to do with other schools with recapitation," he said.
Tamaki, Ruapotaka, Glenbrae, Glen Innes and Panmure Bridge primary schools have been given permission to expand to include year 7 and 8 students.
He is survived by his wife Jeanette and four children.
A funeral will be held on Friday.
