Former Prime Minister Jim Bolger, who led the country through significant economic and electoral change during the 1990s, has died. He was 90.
Bolger, National Party leader during his term in office from 1990 to 1997, was the longest-lived former prime minister. He held the King Country seat for over two decades.
The Taranaki-born farmer turned politician promised to deliver a "decent society" after six years of Rogernomics and Labour's radical economic restructuring in the 80s.
But Bolger's government continued and expanded the reforms, leading to what later became dubbed the "mother of all Budgets" by finance minister Ruth Richardson.
Former NZ Prime Minister Jim Bolger remembered as 'towering figure' - watch on TVNZ+
Nicknamed the Great Helmsman, Bolger presided over New Zealand's electoral reforms and formed the country's first MMP coalition with NZ First leader Winston Peters. He was later ousted from office when Jenny Shipley coordinated a caucus room coup in 1997.
The seventh National Party Leader and New Zealand's 35th Prime Minister has died aged 90. (Source: Breakfast)
After leaving Parliament in 1998, Bolger served as New Zealand's ambassador to the United States until 2002. He later chaired Kiwibank and a led the renationalising of KiwiRail.
His family said he died peacefully yesterday surrounded by his nine children, 18 grandchildren and wife Joan.
"Over the period of his illness, Jim and the family have greatly appreciated the support and companionship of so many friends near and far.
"Joan and family would also like to thank the renal team and all the wonderful staff at Wellington Regional Hospital and Wellington Free Ambulance for their care of Jim over recent months.
"Jim was much loved and will be deeply missed."
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described Bolger as a "towering figure in New Zealand political life - a leader of conviction, a reformer of consequence, and a servant of the people whose legacy has shaped our nation in profound and lasting ways".
"Jim Bolger served with integrity and purpose. He leaves behind a legacy that will be studied, debated, and respected for generations," Luxon said in a statement.
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters, the leader of Bolger's coalition partner, said the former prime minister was "a proud New Zealander who served his country as Prime Minister during a difficult period of serious transition in our politics".
"After leaving politics, Mr Bolger continued to play a role in advancing New Zealand’s interests on the international stage - including as New Zealand Ambassador to the United States at a time when we were seeking to bring our two countries closer together," Peters said.
Former Labour Prime Minister Helen Clark said she was saddened by the news.
"Jim was deeply committed to NZ & served our country selflessly. My heart goes out to Joan and all the Bolger family at this sad time. RIP."
Campbell, who was a political reporter during Bolger's time in Parliament, speaks of his life, love of family and political legacy. (Source: Breakfast)
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