Murray Ball, the creator of one of New Zealand's most beloved cartoons, Footrot Flats, has died.
Born in Feilding in 1939, Mr Ball became one of New Zealand's most successful cartoonists.
His widow, Pam Ball, said he died at home at 11.30am today , surrounded by family.
"[He was a] wonderful, wonderful man and we're all feeling very sad. It was extremely sad to see him go but he's looking very peaceful now," Mrs Ball said.
Their three children and grandchildren are all at the family home, as well as Murray's brother Barry and close friends, she said.
"We were all here as he actually passed away."
The couple were married for 53 years and she said they have been together pretty much every day in that time.
"It's just a huge loss to me, I just can't bear the thought of it really but there it is, he's not suffering anymore."
Mrs Ball said he had alzheimers for the last eight years, and the last three years have been very difficult for him and the family.
She said her husband leaves behind a big legacy.
Funeral arrangements are still to be made.
Footrot Flats was developed when he returned to New Zealand, to a farm near Gisborne. It first appeared in 1976 and became a colossal success, set on a mythical New Zealand farm and focusing on the adventures of an always optimistic farm dog, his owner Wallace, or Wal, Footrot and various family members, neighbours, and animals.
The characters, especially The Dog, became known to millions as the strip was syndicated around the world and even spun off into a 1986 animated movie and a stage musical.