The Maori Language Commission is among a number of Maori organisations paying tribute to former Maori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia who died on Monday.
Te Taura Whiri says during his time as minister, Mr Horomia was responsible for some of its important works.
It says the 62-year-old championed the production of He Pātaka Kupu - one of the largest monolingual dictionaries ever published in the Pacific.
The commission says he believed in the dictionary's critical contribution to, and acknowledgement of, Maori language, culture and historical scholarship.
It says Mr Horomia was very proud of Maori language and culture, supporting national events like Matariki as a means of celebrating New Zealand's nationhood and identity.
The commission says he applauded Maori around the country in the successful revitalisation and showcasing of their cultural heritage, language and knowledge.
Te Puni Kokiri chief executive Michelle Hippolite added her voice to the tributes, saying its staff were remembering Mr Horomia as a rangatira, friend and whanaunga.
Ms Hippolite says staff at the ministry have memories of Mr Horomia as a generous man who worked tirelessly for the people.
Meanwhile the Maori King will lead a contingent from Waikato-Tainui to the tangi at Hauiti Marae on Wednesday.
King Tuheitia paid tribute to Mr Horomia, describing him as a quiet confidante and source of strength.
He says the long-serving Labour Party MP was a tireless supporter of Kingitanga and tino rangatiratanga (self-determination).
