New Zealand gay rights activist Robin Duff dies

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A renowned New Zealand gay rights and education activist Robin Duff died this morning.

Mr Duff, who was a long-time gay rights activist, as well as the senior vice president of the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA), died at Christchurch Hospital this morning.

According to PrideNZ, Mr Duff was the first out gay man to stand for the New Zealand Parliament.

He was involved in the beginnings of the National Gay Rights Coalition.

His death was announced by the PPTA, which in a statement said Mr Duff was surrounded by family and friends.

PPTA president Angela Roberts said: “Robin has been a caring and vibrant part of the association for many years and will be sorely missed.”

Mr Duff had been a prominent figure in the organisation for years, having served as junior vice president from 2005-2007, president from 2007-2009 as well as 2011-2013.

Appearing in the organisation for ten years, Mr Duff sat as vice president from 2009-2011 and 2013 until his death.