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Former Dunedin mayor and current city councillor Jules Radich, 71, has died.
Mayor Sophie Barker confirmed the news in a statement, saying she was “shocked and deeply saddened” by his sudden passing.
“Jules was a much appreciated, valued and dedicated member of our council who I deeply admired forhis service to our community,” Barker said.
“Jules’ dedication and love for Dunedin was immense and he always had the city’s best interests at heart.
“For now, our thoughts, deepest love and sympathies are with Jules’ family and friends, and the city’s flags fly at half-mast in honour of a respected colleague, leader and friend.”
In a social media post, Central Otago Mayor Tamah Alley said she was sad to hear the news.
“[Radich] was incredibly passionate about Dunedin (and water polo!) and a thoroughly nice guy. Thoughts are with his family at this sad time,” she wrote.
Also on social media, Dunedin city councillor Mandy Mayhem-Bullock said she was “in shock” at the news.
“We mourn a friend and workmate taken too soon. Someone I personally have known most of my life. And our recent ex-mayor, whom I sit next to at the council table. Moe mai ra Jules.”
Former Dunedin mayor Jules Radich has died, aged 71. Photo / Ben Tomsett
Labour MP Ingrid Leary said she was “shocked and deeply saddened” to learn of Radich’s passing.
“He made a meaningful contribution to the south side of our city, particularly through his leadership in advancing the South Dunedin climate adaptation proposal to Government level — a vital piece of ongoing work for our community’s future in the face of climate change,“ she said.
“My thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues at this difficult time.”
Labour MP Rachel Brooking said she knew Jules as “partner of Pam and then councillor, Mayor and wine enthusiast”.
“Jules was great to work with - he was always open to a discussion about issues affecting Dunedin. He loved Dunedin. I am very sad that he has died,” she said.
“Jules was very enthusiastic about a range of issues and very engaged with community whether from being active in water polo or through attending community events with gusto. I will very much miss him.”
Otago Regional Councillor Michael Laws said Radich’s death was a “shock to all but esp (sic) his family. Far too young: thoughts with the family at this time.”
Radich served one term as Mayor of Dunedin, returning as a councillor. Photo / Ben Tomsett
Radich was taken to Dunedin Hospital in critical condition following a heart attack yesterday and passed away peacefully at around 12.50 pm today, surrounded by family, the Otago Daily Times reports.
Radich was first elected to the Dunedin City Council in 2019 and served as mayor from 2022 until last year, when he returned to serve as a councillor.
During his time in office, he was known for his involvement in the development of the new Dunedin Hospital, advocacy for local infrastructure projects, and his commitment to the city’s growth.
Ben Tomsett is a multimedia journalist based in Dunedin. He joined the Herald in 2023.
