Educators farewell past union leader Melanie Webber

Melanie Webber, senior vice president of PPTA Te Wehengarua, passed away on Wednesday 9 April at Mercy Hospice. 

She was aged 49, and had been living with breast cancer after a diagnosis in 2020. 

Webber was the president of the secondary union from 2021 to 2022, through the COVID-19 period. As well as being a leader for educators during the pandemic, Webber was also a passionate educator and advocate throughout her career. As union leader, Webber played an important role in the early stages of the NCEA review and curriculum refresh.  

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She began her teaching career later in life after an initial career as a television producer. Webber taught at Western Springs Ngā Puna o Waiōrea.  

She is remembered in Facebook posts by whānau and colleagues as funny, intelligent and courageous.  

“She was sharp, funny, opinionated, stylish, and utterly herself to the end,” reads Webber’s obituary.  

Chris Abercrombie, current president of PPTA Te Wehengarua says as a leader, Webber had “an amazing grasp of detail and the big strategic picture” which enabled her to build strong working relationships.  

“Melanie always did secondary teachers proud…. She was committed to doing everything she could to improve conditions for teachers and students.” 

Tributes for Webber continue to pour in from educators, who say she will be missed.