Prominent former National Party MP Sir William "Bill" Birch has died, aged 92.
Sir William served as Minister of Finance from 1993 to 1999 in the fourth National Government under prime ministers Jim Bolger and Jenny Shipley.
He also served in the third National Government under Prime Minister Robert Muldoon, where, as Minister for National Development, he oversaw the construction of a string of energy projects that came to be known as 'Think Big'.
In a statement, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Birch was "a giant of the National Party and delivered more for our country than he would ever take credit for".
"His close to 30 years in Parliament coincided with a period of significant reform as we modernised our economy and grappled with who we are as a country. Throughout, Sir William maintained his legendary diligence and work ethic, knowing that the sacrifices of public life were worth it to leave a better country for future generations.
"On behalf of the Government and the National Party, I express my deepest condolences to his family and thank them for sharing him with all of us for so many years."
Sir William entered politics in 1972, representing the Franklin electorate. He retired at the 1999 general election after 27 years in the halls of power.
He was appointed a Knight Grand Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for public services as a Member of Parliament and Minister of the Crown in 1999.
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