Jewellery Legend Sir Michael Hill Dies at 86
The jewellery empire’s founder, Sir Richard Michael Hill, passed away on Tuesday morning, July 29, 2025, at the age of 86, according to an official statement released to the New Zealand and Australian stock exchanges.
Born in Whangārei in December 1938, Hill began his working life at his uncle’s family jewellery store, initially hoping for a career as a violinist before turning to retail at age 16.
Later, in 1979, he opened his own Michael Hill Jeweller outlet in Whangārei alongside his wife Christine, launching what would become a global retail phenomenon.
From Humble Origins to Global Reach
Sir Michael’s business grew steadily, from the original store in Whangārei to nearly 300 shops across New Zealand, Australia, and Canada by mid‑2020s.
Known for his flair in storytelling through marketing, he revolutionised retail jewellery with bold window displays and memorable ad campaigns that became household classics across the Tasman.
In April, Sir Michael stepped down from Michael Hill International’s board to focus on cancer treatment, beginning his leave of absence before his death later that month.
A Life Beyond Business
Hill’s passion for music endured throughout his life. This led him to found the Michael Hill International Violin Competition in 2001, a biannual event that supports young violinists with performance tours and recording opportunities.
He also ventured into architecture and philanthropy, building The Hills, an 18-hole championship golf course in Arrowtown that integrates large-scale sculptures crafted by his son Mark—and quickly became one of the country’s notable golf destinations.
Sir Michael received multiple honors during his life: named Entrepreneur of the Year in New Zealand in 2008 and knighted in 2011 for services to business and the arts.
Tributes to a Visionary
Board chairman Rob Fyfe described Sir Michael as more than a jeweller—an innovator whose curiosity, creativity and purpose challenged others to think bigger and remain unrestrained in their ambitions.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon also paid tribute, saying Sir Michael’s drive helped build a globally recognized brand and inspired generations of Kiwi entrepreneurs:
His aspiration, grit and determination, built a globally recognised brand, and gave back to the country that he loved.
Family and Legacy
Sir Michael was survived by his wife, Lady Christine, to whom he’d been married for over 60 years, and their two children, Mark and Emma.
Emma Hill currently serves as chair of Michael Hill International, continuing her father’s legacy at the helm of the business.
A private memorial service is scheduled to be held in Arrowtown, commemorating a life that transformed retail jewellery and left a lasting mark on New Zealand culture.
Summary
Sir Michael Hill, founder of Michael Hill Jeweller, died aged 86 on July 29, 2025.
He built a business from his first store in 1979 into a global brand with nearly 300 locations across three countries.
A lover of music, he established an international violin competition and contributed to arts and philanthropy.
His legacy continues through his family, company and lasting influence on New Zealand entrepreneurship.