Tributes have flowed in for the renowned Solomon Islands journalist George Atkin, who has died.

As well as being a former correspondent for the then-RNZ International and ABC Pacific, Atkin was a leading figure in journalism in Solomon Islands and in the Pacific Islands region.

He was the first president of the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI), serving from 1985 to 1989 and was a respected member of the country’s media fraternity.

• READ MORE: Remembering a Pacific media pioneer — George Atkin Aeta’i

The veteran journalist worked for numerous mainstream media outlets such as the Solomon Star newspaper, Island Sun newspaper and the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation.

A prominent Solomon islands media figure, Robert Iroga, said Atkin was an editor, journalist, storyteller and mentor who understood the power of the pen.

“He understood that journalism was not simply about filling pages or broadcasting news. He understood that words could change policies, challenge governments, expose wrongdoing and even force leaders to resign,” Iroga said.

Some of the region’s best known names in the news media sector have also paid tribute to Atkin on social media.

A Pacific legend
Alexander Rheeney, a former editor of both PNG’s Post Courier newspaper and the Samoa Observer, said Atkin “was a legend and well respected by the media fraternity and the public”.

TVNZ’s long-time Pacific correspondent Barbara Dreaver said Atkin “leaves a legacy that will be remembered”.

RNZ Pacific manager Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor said that Atkin “was a true professional and understood all the complex layers of politics in his country”.

George Atkin died in his home village of Tawatana in Arosi 1, West Makira.