Veteran broadcaster Jim Hopkins dies aged 80

Veteran broadcaster and Waitaki District councillor Jim Hopkins has died at the age of 80.

Hopkins was a regular on New Zealand screens before first being elected to the council in the Oamaru Ward in 2007.

He was the deputy mayor for three years from 2010.

But for decades before his move into politics, Hopkins worked both behind and in front of the camera on New Zealand television - switching between comedy and serious reporting.

He was a writer for the classic soap opera Close to Home in the 1970s and later for the satirical comedy series Public Eye.

He was a reporter and presenter for both news current affairs and light documentary, and wrote a best-selling book Blokes and Sheds, which became a TV series.

Known for his wit, Hopkins was a regular on radio and TV panel shows and was a popular public speaker.

His switch to local body politics suited him well.

The Waitaki District Council said he was a "beloved" councillor who will be remembered with respect and gratitude.

In a posting on its website, Mayor Mel Tavendale said he would be deeply missed.

"He was a fierce advocate for the people of Waitaki, both within and beyond council, and he scrutinised every detail. He kept us all honest," she said.

"The council chamber will not be the same without him, his passionate arguments, attention to detail and incredible wit.

A condolences book would be available at the council offices.