New Zealand reggae legend Willie Hona has died following cancer battle

After a long battle with cancer, music legend and front man for the iconic reggae band Herbs, Wiremu (Willie) Hona has passed away.

His daughter, Natalie Hona, confirmed he died Sunday night in a Facebook post this morning.

“He Aituā. He Aituā.

“Today, we mourn the passing of my Dad Wiremu (Willie) Hona, who passed away last night surrounded by his loving whanau in Paraparaumu."

The musician is being remembered for producing powerful and healing melodies that have echoed across Aotearoa for more than 40 years.

Herbs founding member Toni Fonoti also posted to social media a farewell message for his “brother”.

“Bye me Brother,

“Thank you for being such an inspiration and bringing so much love and joy,

“And writing amazing songs.”

Fonoti also wrote that he was intending to call Hona today to pursue plans of writing together.

Hona joined Herbs in 1983 after the departure of some of its founding members. With his mullet and moustache, Hona quickly became a well-known face for the band.

Online library for New Zealand music, Audioculture, says part of the band’s most successful songwriting came as a result of collaboration between Hona and fellow vocalist Tama Lundon, who were behind hits such as "Long Ago", "Nuclear Waste", and "Listen".

And in 2012, Hona was inducted into the New Zealand Hall of Fame as part Herbs.

Musician and singer-songwriter Moana Maniapoto acknowledges Hona as a “great front man”.

Many social media users are reminiscing on memorable moments had with the legend, and are resharing their favourite Herbs jams.

Natalie’s post also revealed tangi details for her father - which will be held at Hona’s paternal marae, Te Piiti, Omanaia South Hokianga on Tuesday, 7 May 2024.

“On Wednesday we will travel to Pā Te Aroha Marae in Whirinaki, where he will lay for the duration of his huimate (funeral).”

There are reports of fake Facebook accounts sending friend requests and asking for people's bank details for a livestream of the funeral.

Natalie Hona has since updated her post:

"DO NOT ACCEPT ANY FRIEND REQUESTS OR ANY FUNERAL ANOUCEMENTS FOR WILLIE HONA.

"There is no live stream, or page or anything. I’ve only put up one announcement."

PMN offer our most heartfelt condolences to all whānau and fans of Willie Hona.

Willie Hona's signature mullet and moustache in 1985. Photo/Kevin Hill/Audioculture