The founder of Auto Media Group Limited, Vern Whitehead, has sadly passed away at the age of 83.
According to reports from AutoTalk, as well as EVs & Beyond, both of which Whitehead co-founded, his death was sudden following a period of poor health.
He is survived by his wife Betsy, son, two daughters, and grandson.
In addition to co-founding the aforementioned local automotive publications, Whitehead also founded Electric Island Waiheke, a charitable trust dedicated to freeing the island of fossil fuels by 2030.
He also founded AutoFile and AutoDeal, alongside a handful of other organisations in the automotive industry.
Vern Whitehead’s life will be celebrated at a public service at Palm Beach Hall on Waiheke Island on Sunday, March 24, between 2 pm and 4 pm.