I have a great regard for Bishop Philip Richardson – and I know my husband did as well. That was demonstrated abundantly at the end of his life. 

From time to time, Paul spent periods of reflection with both Bishops David Moxon and Philip Richardson as they worked through a new model of a shared episcopate in the Diocese of Waikato. 

I spent a week in New Plymouth in 2010 when Philip involved the whole city in the preparations for St Mary's becoming a Cathedral…

This time was also 150 years since the beginning of the Land Wars in Taranaki, and Philip, with the help of Archdeacon Tiki Raumati, has been very active biculturally in encouraging Te Atiawa (Paul's people) to rediscover St Mary's as a place of worship. 

He is a communicator and teacher, and not afraid to think in creative ways. 

He has the gift of the 'common touch' and an inclusiveness about all he does.

Belinda Holmes his wife is a great support, but is her own person with her own gifts to share.