Former Deputy Prime Minister Jim Anderton has died

Former Deputy Prime Minster Jim Anderton has died at age 79.

Anderton passed peacefully at Cashmere View Hospital in Christchurch overnight.

Anderton, who was born in Auckland, first joined the Labour party in the 1960s and served from 1999 to 2002 alongside Helen Clark.

Jacinda Ardern PM posted to her Twitter to express her condolences.

“So sad to hear of the passing of Jim Anderton today. He was a man of huge integrity, strong values and had a genuine passion for people,” the caption read.

“He dedicated so much of his life to public service and leaves a huge legacy. My thoughts are with his family and friends. RIP, Jim.”

So sad to hear of the passing of Jim Anderton today. He was a man of huge integrity, strong values and had a genuine passion for people. He dedicated so much of his life to public service and leaves a huge legacy. My thoughts are with his family and friends. RIP, Jim.

— Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) January 6, 2018

Andrew Little has also posted to his Twitter regarding Anderton’s death.

“Sorry to hear Jim Anderton has sadly passed away,” the post read.

“In my dealings with him as student leader, union leader and newbie MP he was always deeply principled, thoughtful & determined to do the right thing. He happened to be right. Often. RIP Jim.”

Sorry to hear Jim Anderton has sadly passed away. In my dealings with him as student leader, union leader and newbie MP he was always deeply principled, thoughtful & determined to do the right thing. He happened to be right. Often. RIP Jim

— Andrew Little (@andrewlittle_nz) January 6, 2018

Anderton devoted most of his adult life to the Labour party and public service.

He was also a prominent advocate for the restoration of the Christchurch cathedral.

Rest in peace, Jim Anderton.