“Sir Michael epitomised what it is to be a great New Zealander. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.”
Current Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro has also paid tribute to Sir Michael, who guided New Zealand through its first MMP elections.
The Governor-General, Sir Michael Hardie Boys, is escorted by Lieutenant Commander Beryl Oldham, of Milford, as he inspects the 100-person tri-service guard of honour during his state farewell at Parliament, March 21, 2001. Photo / Mark Mitchell
“Sir Michael carried out his vice-regal duties with the utmost care and good humour, and took particular pride in encouraging and supporting the aspirations of young people,” said Dame Cindy in a statement.
“In carrying out my own duties as Governor-General during the recent election, I took great comfort in knowing I was following the principles Sir Michael so carefully laid out during his term.
“On behalf of all New Zealanders, Dr Davies and I extend our sincerest condolences to Sir Michael’s whānau at this sad time.”
I’m saddened by the death of Sir Michael Hardie Boys, the 17th Governor-General of New Zealand.
His distinguished life of service to New Zealand was one of dedication and reliability.
Sir Michael epitomised what it is to be a great New Zealander. Our thoughts are with his…
A former High Court and Court of Appeal judge, he was chosen to oversee the first two elections held under the MMP system, because of his legal experience.
“Sir Michael guided New Zealand into the MMP era,” Luxon said in a statement.
“Sir Michael was a figure of stability during a time of significant constitutional change.”
He was knighted in 1995 and the following year became the first Knight Grand Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
Sir Michael believed Governors-General had a duty to speak out about the community’s concerns - which he did, commenting on inequality, family violence and child abuse.
When his vice-regal term ended in April 2001, he retired from public life.
The Karekare surf lifesaving patrol with the then Governor-General (centre wetsuit) Sir Michael Hardie Boys and Waitakere City Mayor Bob Harvey (4th left). Photo / Ted Scott
“On the role of the Governor-General more broadly, Sir Michael noted ‘there is still more to the office than the official smile, the genteel wave and the memory of plumed helmets of yesteryear,’” the Governor-General’s office said in its statement.
In accordance with Sir Michael’s wishes, a state funeral will not be held.
The Chief Justice today paid tribute on behalf of the New Zealand judiciary, to the Rt Hon Sir Michael Hardie Boys GNZM GCMG and QSO, who passed away on 29 December 2023, aged 92https://t.co/il1su33ywDpic.twitter.com/xK19xHvfpF
