Brian Perry farewelled in Hamilton

Mavora Hamilton farewells her long-time partner, businessman and philanthropist Brian Perry, whom she nursed through years of illness. Photo / Christine Cornege

Simon Perry had a bone to pick with his father, Brian, yesterday - telling him he was so busy giving his time to others that he never left enough for himself.

His son paid tribute in front of 1000 people overflowing out of the Southwell School auditorium in Hamilton at the funeral of the proud family man, hardworking businessman and generous, community-spirited philanthropist.

Simon Perry said the 75-year-old helped anyone from close friends, family, clients and staff to the man in the street - and always put himself at the end of the queue.

"Brian always gave up his time freely, unconditionally, without thought for anything in return ... so in the end there was only one person who suffered the most from never having enough time with Brian and that's the man you see here."

His other children Tiffiney and Guy talked about a hardworking Waikato man who never raised his voice but gave sound advice. His daughter said his honest and direct nature carried over to his parenting; she recalled receiving letters of advice slipped under the bedroom door with words of wisdom.

Friends and family spoke of a keen water and snow skier, fisherman, duck shooter, squash and tennis player, golfer and, in his earlier years, a marathon runner and rugby player.

Best friend and long-time business partner Barry Coombes farewelled "a true entrepreneur with a great philanthropic attitude".

He spoke fondly of "BP's" business achievements starting Brian Perry Civil, when he borrowed £16,000 from his father in 1953 to buy the first piece of equipment.

From small beginnings the company grew to a national and then an international firm.

That business - and the setting-up of a charitable trust - won numerous accolades and awards.

There was laughter as Mr Coombes revealed how the otherwise generous Mr Perry kept a close watch on expenses.

He recalled how Mr Perry was so against business-class flights that he almost turned down an upgrade - until Mr Coombes told him it was free.

"BP, our friendship has been huge - it's been a huge part of my life whether the boardroom, at our weekly tennis matches or holidaying with family and friends.

"You've left us with wonderful memories and the world is a poorer place without you. God bless you, BP, we are going to miss you, mate."

Perry Group chief executive Murray Gutry said his induction lasted two minutes.

"He [Mr Perry] said, 'Murray, it annoys me when people look at us and think making money is easy, it isn't. There's only one secret to success, it's called hard work. Murray, never forget the secret - now back off to work."'

Long-time partner Mavora Hamilton, who cared for Mr Perry during his battle with Parkinson's in the past few years, said he had conducted himself with fortitude and dignity throughout. He had been an inspiration.

"Today he's sitting on my shoulder and I can assure you, while he wouldn't like the fuss, he is actually feeling very, very chuffed to see you all here.

While his generosity to the community will carry on through the hard work of the Brian Perry Charitable Trust visible in the Waikato Stadium and Sports Waikato to name a few projects, his mates will also continue their own tradition.

Ms Hamilton said the Tuesday tennis match would continue.

"Tennis as usual next Tuesday."