Green Party MP Catherine Delahunty has paid tribute to renowned Coromandel icon Barry Brickell who died on Saturday.

Reflecting on the life of the pioneering potter, artist, author, conservationist and railway enthusiast, Catherine says his voice and vision will be hugely missed 'but never forgotten”.

Barry Brickell. Photo Fairfax

Barry passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends at his home in Driving Creek. He was 80 years old.

'I have known Barry for 42 years and have been privileged to witness his extraordinary creative drive both as a master potter and as the creator of one of the best eco-tourism experiences in this country,' she says.

'By restoring native forest at Driving Creek, Barry created a shining example of conservation that is accessible to all, and also generated employment for the Coromandel community.

'It showed how one person's vision and astonishing work ethic can make dreams real.”

Barry was also a strong voice for protecting the environment, she says.

'During his final days he was encouraging us to support his vision of a pier in Coromandel harbour rather than a marina which could disturb the contaminated mud from historical gold mining.”

Thames-Coromandel District mayor Glenn Leach is also expressing council's deepest sympathies and condolences to Barry's family and friends.

He says Barry was highly respected by his local Coromandel community for his generous support through donations and social contributions to the local area.

This includes personally initiating and funding the provision of milk to the Coromandel Area School and being a funder of Kiwi Can programmes amongst many others.

'He will be greatly missed particularly within his local community,” says Glenn.

'But his life works and achievements remain as a lasting legacy and huge contribution to the Coromandel's environment, culture and well-being.”