The Catholic bishop of Christchurch, Barry Jones, has died this morning surrounded by family.
A statement issued by the Catholic Diocese says Mr Jones died "peacefully" after a decline in health.
Mr Jones was admitted to hospital yesterday after a heart attack, although he had also had a number of strokes in the last few months.
After studying priesthood at Christchurch's Holy Name Seminary and Mosgiel's Holy Cross College, Mr Jones was ordained as a priest in Rangiora in 1966.
He went on to serve at various parishes and ministries in Timaru, Christchurch, Akaroa, Burnham and on the West coast before he was installed as the ninth Catholic Bishop of Christchurch in 2007.
He has been described by friends and colleagues as a humble and stoic man, who had great and unwavering faith.
Newshub.
