Alexia Black

Jul 22, 2024 | thespinoff.co.nz | Alexia Black

Sir Robert Martin was a survivor of abuse in care who was integral in fighting for an inquiry. He passed away while waiting for redress and an apology. One of his meeting assistants, Alexia Black, remembers him. Unbelievably, it has been almost three months since Sir Robert Martin KNZM died peacefully in his home in Whanganui. He died 20 years before he should have – just like the statistics predicted.

May 5, 2024 | thedlist.co.nz | Siobhan Rosenthal |Red Nicholson |Devon Webb |Alexia Black

Since his passing, I’ve spoken to so many people who are hurting from their loss. One thing is consistent: everyone felt he was their close, personal friend. There is a sense of pride in people who knew him – whether through one meeting or a lifetime of shared memories. To be able to do that – make everyone feel like they were his person – what a gift.