Sir Michael Hill, the visionary behind the global jewellery empire Michael Hill Jewellers, has died peacefully at the age of 86 in his hometown of Arrowtown, New Zealand, surrounded by his family.
The brand he created in 1979 has become a household name across New Zealand, Australia, and Canada, with more than 200 stores—170 of them in Australia alone. Known for elegant craftsmanship and iconic pink branding, Michael Hill Jewellers is now deeply embedded in the lives of millions of customers.
From Concert Dreams to Jewellery Giant
Before becoming a titan of the jewellery world, Sir Michael dreamed of being a concert violinist. At 17, he was told he’d started too late to reach the highest levels in classical music. Pivoting with determination, he joined his uncle’s jewellery business—an unexpected start that would lead to the creation of one of the world’s most recognisable jewellery brands.
What began as a single store in Whangārei, New Zealand, quickly expanded across borders. By 1980, Michael Hill Jewellers had opened in Australia, and soon after, the brand established a presence in Canada.
Remembering a Master Storyteller and Trailblazer
Described by his company as a “celebrated jeweller, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and committed father and husband,” Sir Michael was admired for his sharp eye for design, innovative marketing, and flair for storytelling. His award-winning window displays and bold advertising campaigns revolutionized jewellery retail.
Michael Hill Chairman Rob Fyfe praised him as a leader with “curiosity, open-mindedness, and creativity” who inspired those around him to aim higher and dream bigger.
Sir Michael is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Lady Christine Hill, their two children, including daughter Emma Hill—who succeeded him as company chair in 2015—and several grandchildren.
Legacy in Music and Philanthropy
Though his career shifted to jewellery, Hill’s love for music never faded. He practiced violin daily and in 2001 launched the Michael Hill International Violin Competition, one of the world’s leading contests for emerging classical talent. Held biennially, the competition awards a major cash prize, global tour, and recording deal. The next event is scheduled for May–June 2026 in Queenstown and Auckland.
The competition issued a heartfelt statement:
“Michael showed us that passion, excellence, and purpose can go hand-in-hand. He was a true artist at heart and taught generations of musicians how to dream big.”
As a tribute, all 11 past winners of the competition are recording a special performance of Bach’s Chaconne—a piece dear to Sir Michael—for a commemorative video.
A Nation Pays Tribute
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to Sir Michael’s legacy, saying:
“He built a globally recognised brand from scratch and inspired generations of Kiwi entrepreneurs to dream big. May he rest in peace.”
Final Words
Sir Michael Hill’s impact on both the jewellery and music worlds is immeasurable. His vision, creativity, and philanthropy will continue to inspire future generations—not just through the jewellery stores that bear his name, but through the music and artistic spirit he so dearly cherished.
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