Stefan Mavor Death, Oamaru, NZ Obituary – North Otago Sports Community Mourns Loss

It is with great sadness that the Valley rugby family and the wider North Otago sporting community mourn the passing of Stefan Mavor, a much-loved member, volunteer, referee and friend whose contribution to local sport touched countless lives.

Stefan spent almost his entire rugby career with Valley, apart from a couple of years while attending WBHS. During his playing career, he made well over 200 senior appearances in the Valley jersey. After his playing days, he continued giving back to the sport by volunteering as a referee with the North Otago Referee Association.

His involvement in local sport extended beyond rugby. Stefan was also a familiar and valued presence on the cricket field, where he spent more than 20 years playing across the senior grades.

Away from the field, Stefan devoted countless hours to Valley. Alongside his wife, Teressa, he contributed as a committee member, bar manager and JAB Coordinator. His willingness to volunteer and support others made him an important part of the sporting community.

Tributes have remembered Stefan for his humour, dedication, toughness, warmth and kindness. Fellow referees recalled how committed he was to ensuring games could go ahead, even on difficult days, and praised the wit and character he brought to the sidelines.

The wider rugby community has also recognized Stefan as a pillar of North Otago sport. Although he was not specifically an Excelsior man, his dedication to refereeing and his many years of service made him part of the broader rugby family.

His commitment extended to his family, farm, community and other local responsibilities, including involvement with school boards. Those who knew him described a generous person who consistently found time to volunteer, support others and contribute wherever he could.

Stefan’s passing has left a profound void for Teressa, Ben, Liam, Emily, Harry and the entire Mavor family, as well as the many friends and sporting communities who knew him.

His legacy will live on through the people he supported, the games he helped make possible and the countless memories created on and off the field.

Rest easy, Stefan. Your contribution to North Otago sport will not be forgotten.