At his tangi, it was noted the work that he'd done in recognising the impact of colonisation on Māori. At his tangi, they also spoke of his beginnings in broadcasting and his work on getting the 1989 Broadcasting Act passed, as well as many other influences he had in politics and improving education for Māori. Also noted at his tangi was his determination for co-governance, for Māori education, and his work for the health of our water. Tā Toby called out cowards who did not understand the need for equity via co-governance.