Tony Johnson. Photo: Supplied
Mr Johnson, 90, lived in Redcliffs and was well-known for making popular surf craft-like skis and boards in the 1950s and early 1960s.
They were manufactured under the Dolphin label and are an integral and important part of New Zealand's surfing history.
Mr Johnson recently became patron of the Sumner Surf Lifesaving Club after being involved with the club for almost 70 years.
He also featured in the new book, NZ SURF: The Collection Volume II, by Warren Hawke.
Said Hawke: “He was just the most amazing person.
"He was welcoming and very open with his resources and material and was an absolute gentleman."
