Olympic medallist Dick Quax has passed away, at the age of 70.

The middle distance runner and Auckland Councillor claimed a silver medal at the 1976 Olympics.

Fellow running great Rod Dixon said Quax died this morning.

"Right now this is the most emotional time, my great friend and competitor passed away peacefully in New Zealand this morning," he said on Facebook.

"To his family my condolences and love at this most difficult time.

"Peaceful journey my great friend."