Legendary New Zealand musician Roger McLachlan died on Friday aged 71, following a secret battle with pancreatic cancer.

The South Island-born musician was the original bassist for iconic Melbourne rock group Little River Band, from 1975 – 1976.

His death was confirmed on social media in a heartbreaking statement by fellow musician Michael Oliphant.

‘It is with enormous sadness I report that Roger McLachlan passed away today from complications due to pancreatic cancer,’ Michael began.

‘He leaves behind his adoring wife and a delightful loving family who were all with him through the end. Roger didn’t wish his struggle to be widely known and so chose to keep it just between family and a handful of friends.

‘Roger was a wonderful friend, collaborator, musical powerhouse, absolute monster bass player and all round naughty boy. Life will never be the same. RIP dear mate. Gutted.’ 

New Zealand musician Roger McLachlan died on Friday aged 71, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. The South Island-born musician was the original bassist for Melbourne rock group Little River Band, from 1975 – 1976. Pictured with the band, third from left

McLachlan played bass on the band’s 1976 hit song It’s a Long Way There.

The track reached number 28 on the US Billboard chart, and also enjoyed success in Australia and New Zealand.

The musician then joined another iconic Melbourne band, Stars, and played on their 1977 hit album Paradise, which reached the Australian top 20. 

He later became a session musician and performed bass on John Farnham’s iconic 1986 song You’re the Voice and the Merril Bainbridge hit Mouth.

The energetic musician continued to perform across the years and in 2012 he released his highly anticipated debut solo album called Roger This Roger That. 

Heartbroken fans took to social media to pay tribute to McLachlan.

‘How awful. Roger mate you will be sorely missed, what a giant of music,’ one person wrote.

‘Totally shocked,’ a second added.

McLachlan’s death was confirmed on social media in a statement by fellow musician Michael Oliphant

McLachlan played bass on the band’s 1976 hit song It’s a Long Way There

Little River Band, originally called Mississippi, were named after a river in Melbourne, Victoria, enjoyed a string of global hits including Reminiscing, Help is on its Way, Cool Change, and Curiosity Killed the Cat.

The original line up included Beeb Birtles, Graeme Goble, Derek Pellicci, Shorrock and lead guitarist Ric Formosa and McLachlan.

The group went on to become one of the most successful bands ever to come out of Australia, and the first to achieve major commercial success in the United States.

McLachlan is survived by his wife Desley.