Wihapi’s death on Saturday prompted tributes from around the country, with Baker describing her as someone who would have given others “the shirt off her back”.
Porirua mayor Anita Baker and Deputy Mayor Kylie Wihapi.
Baker told NZME that Wihapi had dedicated much of her life to helping others, from coaching and umpiring netball to supporting charities and community initiatives.
“This year she got a great umpiring award for netball. She coached and umpired at regionals and she ran teams here,” Baker said.
“She just did so much.”
Her community involvement also included Pink Ribbon breakfasts, Mary Potter Hospice and Rotary, and established an annual pet food drive in Porirua.
“She didn’t stop … just everything there was that needed doing, she would put her hand up and support anything,” Baker said.
“She would have given you the shirt off her back.”
Wihapi is survived by her husband Adam Wihapi, son Cooper and stepson Arama, as well as parents Marlene and Rob, her brothers and wider whānau.
“I have lost the love of my life, my best friend, my soulmate, my everything, my wife,” Adam wrote on social media.
“I loved Kylie with everything and she back to me. She was amazing with Cooper, just the best mother I could have hoped for.
“I’m going to miss you, my darling, you leave a void in mine and Cooper’s heart. I love you so much.”
Barbara Edmonds (right) has shared a touching tribute describing Kylie Wihapi as an “amazing wāhine”.
Wihapi was first elected to Porirua City Council in 2016 and made history in 2022 when she became the city’s first elected Māori ward councillor.
She was appointed deputy mayor that year and retained the position after the 2025 local elections.
Baker, who said she and Wihapi had been friends for about 12 years, said the death had left those closest to her struggling to come to terms with the loss.
“Oh, absolute shock for all of us. No one expects someone at 45 to pass in a tragic accident like that.”
Two books of condolence will be available for the public to sign from tomorrow at Pātaka Art + Museum on Parumoana St and the council’s administration building in Cobham Court.
The books will be moved to Te Rauparaha Arena on Saturday for the funeral service.
Porirua City Council’s first meeting since Wihapi’s death is scheduled for Thursday.