Jim Bolger, New Zealand’s 35th Prime Minister, dies aged 90
Former Prime Minister Jim Bolger has died aged 90.
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,” a statement from his family read.
“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 Bolger’s death at 90 marks the end of an era in New Zealand politics. Audrey Young reflects on the remarkable life and legacy of a man who left school at 15 and rose to become our country’s 35th Prime Minister. Read the full obituary here and follow our live blog below.
'It is an example that will never be forgotten by the Māori world'
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Te Pāti Māori MP Tākuta Ferris said he had watched as a child how Bolger would settle Treaty and fisheries settlements and the way he "took care of the iwi", noting the respect he had for the Māori Queen during the Tainui settlement.
"It is an example that will never be forgotten by the Māori world."
Treaty Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith pays tribute to Jim Bolger
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Treaty Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith says "decency" comes to mind when thinking of Bolger. He led the country through "tumultuous times' and "antagonism" and yet most people saw him not as divisive but as bringing people together.
Goldsmith referred to Bolger's experience as wrangling a large family as "keeping the peace" and believes it might be "similar with Cabinet".
Bolger was often gently mocked as "spud" and for saying "confident with a K"," says Goldsmith. He "was never super popular as Prime Minister, but he was respected, and that at the end is the most important thing."
Goldsmith says Bolger was "always comfortable amongst Māori" and he had "fair-minded" instincts. He began the Treaty settlements process that remains ongoing today. Bolger "set us off on an important course and he will always be remembered for that".
'He had the highest ideals of humanity': Te Pāti Māori pays tribute to Bolger
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Te Pāti Māori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer said Bolger's work in Cabinet gave life to the values of good faith and good will.
"His leadership serves as a lesson to embrace each other."
She spoke of his upbringing near Parihaka and how he fought for the Government to recognise the rights afforded through Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
"For us, Mr Bolger is regarded as the greatest PM since Michael Savage."
Ngarewa-Packer lauded Bolger's efforts to retain national assets and his treaty settlement work alongside National's Doug Graham.
"He had the highest ideals of humanity," she said of his advocacy for the people of Parihaka.
She offered the party's deepest condolences to the Bolger family as well as iwi across the country who will feel the loss.
"We will mourn his passing."
Winston Peters pays tribute to Jim Bolger
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NZ First's Winston Peters, who served in Bolger's Cabinet, including as Deputy Prime Minister, says his thoughts are with Bolger's family.
He would have taken solace in being with his family in his final moments, Peters says.
There are various views of political history but few have the experience of living it like Bolger did, Peters says.
Bolger was a Republican who ironically served as the King Country MP, Peters notes.
As a Te Kuiti farmer he grew up around Māori and saw no reason for difference and every reason for working together as a community, Peters says.
"We were not without our differences but the day is not for reforming those moments," he adds. He had the "reflective courage to admit that mistakes were made".
Peters notes he and Bolger formed the first MMP Government, putting previous differences aside between the two.
"He kept his word," Peters says. "Jim, may God bless you."
David Seymour says Bolger leaves 'an extraordinary legacy'
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Act leader David Seymour rose to join the House in honouring the "life and times and legacy" of Bolger. "He was a man of a great family, our thoughts are with Joan, their nine children and their family."
Seymour spoke of Bolger leading economic reform that saw New Zealand grow in global standing, acknowledging the bravery of starting the Treaty settlement process in 1992.
Separated by two generations from Bolger, Seymour said he didn't have the richness of stories about interactions with Bolger like others had but after consulting those who had known him, Seymour said Bolger was someone who had an innate sense of fairness and respect for the underdog.
"He was somebody who encapsulated many of the qualities of a politician that so many politicians would like to be remembered for."
Greens send aroha to Jim Bolger's family, acknowledge his work across party lines
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The Greens' Teanau Tuiono tells the House Bolger was first and foremost a husband, a father and a grandfather.
"We send our aroha to his children" as well as his 18 grandchildren.
Tuiono acknowledges "many tributes from many Māori communities".
Tuiono says Bolger "was known for his intelligence" and his strong negotiation skills. Bolger wasn't afraid of working across party lines, such as on fair pay agreements after he left office.
"He oversaw significant reforms, including the introduction of the MMP system," Tuiono says.
He believed in Te Tiriti and restorative justice, Tuiono says.
"He advocated for us to learn our history and own it, warts and all," says Tuiono.
There is an important lessons about navigating political pressures and reaching out to the other side. "It shows the strength of the man," the Green MP adds.
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Hipkins lauded how Bolger was recommended to receive the nation's highest honour at a time when the then Government was filled with his former political rivals.
He compared Bolger to the former Labour PM Mike Moore in how they were defined by "character, conviction and service".
"His influence continues to guide us in the years to come."
'His passing marks the end of an era' - Hipkins
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Hipkins said Bolger's life was "full of contradictions", citing how his government did "more to weaken unions than any other" before later commenting how weak unions had become. "His passing marks the end of an era."
Bolger's work to progress Treaty settlements deserved special mention, Hipkins said. He noted how Bolger had believed what was best for Māori was often best for the nation.
'He remained a mentor and friend to anyone in this House' - Hipkins
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Hipkins spoke of how the pair had been seated next to each other during some flights to and from Hamilton in late 2016 or early 2017. They spoke of the then US election campaign and lamented about how people had seemingly become less capable of peacefully disagreeing with each other.
"He could see that concentration of wealth around the world was unsustainable," Hipkins said, noting that had led to further division.
"He would refer to me as young Chris, even as I became Prime Minister."
Hipkins said Bolger had been a keen follower of many different politicians. "He remained a mentor and friend to anyone in this House who sought his guidance."
Labour leader Chris Hipkins recalls the first time he met Jim Bolger
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Labour leader Chris Hipkins, now speaking, said his party paid tribute to Bolger and recalled how he first met the former PM in the sixth form at high school when Bolger was PM after NZ won the America's Cup.
Involved in the welcome reception, Hipkins was collecting signatures from the politicians instead of the athletes. "There were warning signs even back then, Mr Speaker," Hipkins said to laughs in the House.
Hipkins credited Bolger for being genuinely interested in other people and asking plenty of questions.
Chris Luxon pays tribute to Jim Bolger in Parliament
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In his contribution, Luxon recalls the various portfolios Bolger held as a minister and in Opposition, before then becoming Prime Minister. He says the House sends its sorrow to Bolger's family, noting him to be a cherished husband, father and New Zealander. The Prime Minister says Bolger helped New Zealanders "become more confident" in the nation's "unique sense of identity".
As Prime Minister, Bolger helped lead New Zealand through significant economic and cultural changes. Luxon namechecks the famous "Mother of All Budgets". He strongly opposed nuclear testing in the Pacific and helped New Zealand become more open to Asia. He guided the country through the transition to MMP, Luxon says. One of the defining moments is helping form an agreement with Ngai Tahu. "Jim never lost his humour or his humility," the Prime Minister says. He had "wit" and "Irish charm" that stayed with him throughout his life, Luxon says.
Since becoming Prime Minister, Luxon says he had received some phone calls from Bolger that he described as "short, sincere and thoughtful". Bolger provided "advice that I took seriously".
Parliament pays tribute to Jim Bolger
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MPs have filed into Parliament ahead of the speeches on the death of former Prime Minister Jim Bolger.
Just earlier, the Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro and Speaker Gerry Brownlee wrote in a book of condolensces.
The House begins with Brownlee informing the House of the death of Bolger, before Luxon moves a motion to recognise the former Prime Minister.
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Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro signing the book of condolences for Jim Bolger at Parliament.
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Todd Muller pays tribute to 'dear friend and mentor' Jim Bolger
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Former National leader and Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller has paid tribute to Jim Bolger, highlighting his "deep love of family, faith and community".
"I am deeply saddened by the death of Rt Hon Jim Bolger ONZ. He was an extraordinary New Zealand statesman who had a deep sense of the potential of our young nation. At his core was a deep love of family, faith and community and throughout his life he fused those traditional values with a thirst for knowledge and new ideas that constantly polished his vision for Aotearoa New Zealand. He openly embraced Māori aspiration and strong environmental leadership," Muller said.
"I will remember him as a dear friend and mentor who gave me much advice and support over thirty years - always delivered directly wrapped with unrelenting positivity and humour. I will miss him deeply and Michelle and I are thinking of Joan and his close family at this time. Rest in peace now, good and faithful servant," he added.
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Tainui Iwi pay tribute to Jim Bolger
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Tainui Group Holdings has issued a statement paying tribute to the late Jim Bolger:
"He maimai aroha ki a Rt Hon Jim Bolger.
"We join our iwi in expressing sincere condolences on the passing of Rt Hon Jim Bolger.
"Much has already been said of his role in steering his National government to settlement of our Raupatu claim and acknowledgement of the harm perpetrated on our people. Negotiations to achieve settlement in the 1990s were long and arduous and, as a show of good faith, Mr Bolger actioned the early return of some whenua, which included the former Airforce base at Te Rapa.
"This whenua, of course, went on to become The Base, one of the country’s largest shopping centres and a significant contributor to building prosperity for Waikato-Tainui.
"The property endowment from the settlement has enabled our iwi to build its economic position and this is part of the proud legacy Mr Bolger leaves.
"We send our aroha to Joan and whaanau at this very sad time.
"E te rangatira Jim, haere oti atu ai!
"Paimaarire."
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Flags flying at half-mast in Auckland
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US Embassy in NZ issues statement on passing of Jim Bolger
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"We are deeply saddened by the passing of the Rt Hon Jim Bolger. Mr. Bolger was a statesman of extraordinary dedication and character, whose leadership profoundly strengthened the bonds between our two nations," US Consul General in New Zealand Melissa Sweeney said in a statement.
"As Prime Minister, Mr. Bolger played a pivotal role in shaping New Zealand’s foreign policy and advancing its international partnerships. His service as Ambassador to the United States from 1998 to 2002 exemplified his commitment to building bridges and fostering understanding. A stalwart of the U.S.-New Zealand relationship, he brought a deep understanding of global issues and an unparalleled network of relationships to advance shared priorities, including trade, security, and international cooperation.
"During his tenure in Washington, Mr. Bolger fostered collaboration on critical issues such as trade, investment, and peacekeeping. His leadership and unwavering dedication to strengthening the partnership between New Zealand and the United States will be remembered with great respect and deep appreciation.
"Our thoughts are with Joan, with the wider Bolger whanau, his friends, and the people of New Zealand as they mourn the loss of a remarkable leader."
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Waitomo District Council pays tribute to 'proud Te Kūiti man' Jim Bolger
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Political historian Michael Bassett recalls his time with Parliament with Bolger
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Political historian Michael Bassett entered parliament that same day Bolger did in 1972 as a Labour MP.
Even on the other side of the aisle, he said he could tell Bolger was the star.
“He was Minister of Fisheries and then Minister of Labour for six years, 1978 to 84, and a pretty competent one, managing in the pre-Rogernomics days when all major economic and industrial negotiations were conducted by the minister, usually with a grog cabinet getting a fair hammering. So he was a very good person for his time.”
Bassett said Bolger wanted change, as long as it did not happen too rapidly, the sort of person who kept the boat moving in a certain direction under a steady hand.
“He was never a revolutionary, but nor was he a stick-in-the-mud.”
Flags flow at half-mast at the Beehive to honour Jim Bolger
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'A wonderful man': Chris Bishop recalls interaction with Jim Bolger
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Minister Chris Bishop told Breakfast that National's thoughts are with Bolger's family.
"I think many people will be thinking of Joan in particular, his wife, who was such a rock by the him through so many years, and I think a lot of people actually got to know quite well. A wonderful woman, Joan Bolger, and had this massive extended family obviously as well ... I know that he was very proud of them."
While he didn't know Bolger "super well", Bishop recalled a public meeting in the Kāpiti Coast that Bolger attended a few years ago. His presence captured the room's attention "in a way that only a former Prime Minister could".
"Soon enough, the meeting was basically Jim expounding his views on various different issues to me ... it was quite interesting and relatively amusing.
"But, yeah, he was a wonderful man."
Dame Jenny Shipley remembers Jim Bolger
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The New Zealand flag at half-mast this morning on the Beehive.
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Chris Hipkins pays tribute to Bolger's 'enduring commitment to public life'
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The Labour Party has issued a statement saying it is sad to hear of the passing of the Right Honourable Jim Bolger ONZ PC.
“Jim was a towering figure in New Zealand politics both in his role as Prime Minister, and as the Member of Parliament for King Country for 27 years,” Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said.
“His time in office was marked by immense economic and social change. He oversaw the introduction of the MMP electoral system and worked to put New Zealand’s modern economy firmly on the world stage.
"Jim had an enduring commitment to public life, his legacy will be long remembered, and his contributions will continue to shape our country for generations to come.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his wife Joan, his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched through his decades of public service,” Hipkins said.
'New Zealand has lost a very special person' - Dame Jenny Shipley on Jim Bolger
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Dame Jenny Shipley, the Prime Minister who held the coup that ousted Bolger, said today was not the day to go into the “political machinations”.
She did touch on his “professionalism” during a period of difficult issues and transition.
“But what I can say is Jim gave me a huge opportunity as a young woman, you know, as a minister in 1990.
“He gave me the chance, even though it was a controversial role.
“We always worked closely together, and he knew that at some point there would be a change, and we had talked about that often.”
She said of course he was a statesman, a very important leader, but she said he will remember him for a person who “did what was right”.
He was not just a talker, he was a doer, a skilled negotiator, a person of incredible integrity, and a very supportive leader.
She said Jim and Joan Bolger had some of the “great relationships” in New Zealand political history.
“They served our nation together, they lived their values together and in very many respects they loved the National Party and what they did to lead New Zealand.”
She said that “New Zealand has lost a very special person.”
Bolger 'personified the very best of NZ rural values'
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Nelson Mayor Nick Smith said Bolger “personified the very best of NZ rural values”.
“I admire Jim Bolger’s courage in driving reform of our antiquated labour laws, steering down the political left and in driving Treaty settlements that involved steering down the political right.”
Smith said he first got to know Bolger on the Dominion Council of the National Party in 1985 and then as a candidate and then MP for Tasman in the 1990 landslide victory.
He said he always kept in touch with Bolger, who was happy to give advice. “I remember his counsel early on that our duty was to make sure we left the country in better shape from our period of stewardship - a motto he truly lived up to.”
New Zealand flag to fly at half-mast
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The flag will be flown at half mast on all Government and public buildings to mark Jim Bolger’s death.
A spokesperson for the Ministry for Culture and Heritage said the flag will be flown again at half mast on the day of his funeral, the details for the date are yet to be announced.
“This instruction applies to all Government Departments, buildings and naval vessels which have flag poles and normally fly the New Zealand Flag. The Flag should be returned to full mast at the close of business hours on 16 October 2025.”
Taranaki-King Country Labour pay tribute to Jim Bolger
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Taranaki-King Country Labour this morning paid tribute to Jim Bolger in recognition of his 25 years as the electorate’s representative.
"Taranaki-King Country Labour would like to acknowledge the passing of Jim Bolger and recognise his 25 years as the MP for the seat of King Country.
"We extend condolences to his dedicated wife, Joan, his children, grandchildren, wider whānau and many friends."
Bolger continued to serve the community of Kāpiti during his retirement in Waikanae
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Mayor of Kāpiti Janet Holborow said it was "sad news" this morning that former Prime Minister Jim Bolger has passed.
"While he will be remembered for his service as Prime Minister and internationally, he also continued to serve the community of Kāpiti during his retirement in Waikanae."
Audrey Young reflects on Jim Bolger's immense legacy
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Jim Bolger’s death at 90 marks the end of an era in New Zealand politics. Audrey Young reflects on the remarkable life and legacy of a man who left school at 15 and rose to become our country’s 35th Prime Minister. Read the full obituary here.
'It was hard to dislike him': Helen Clark remembers Jim Bolger's sense of humour
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Former Prime Minister Helen Clark said although the pair were "adversaries" she and Bolger still respected each other and she was saddened by his death.
Since retiring from politics, she said she “really came to like him a lot”.
She recalled him calling her during his time in office over whether to go to the International Court of Justice for an opinion on the legality or illegality of nuclear weapons, one of the many examples of him reaching across the aisle.
“What I will remember about Jim Bolger is his sense of humour. You know, he had an Irish sense of humour.
“He loved a good joke and generally was a very affable character. It was hard to dislike Jim Bolger.
“You know, he was a friendly guy and I think that's the way I'll remember him.”
Helen Clark says Jim Bolger 'served our country selflessly'
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Sir John Key remembers Bolger's 'real joy' from his work
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Former Prime Minister Sir John Key said Jim Bolger would never shy away from ringing Key up during his time in power and critiquing his decisions.
“But not in an interfering way. He just had an eye for politics, and he cared deeply, I think, about the country and where we were going.”
He said Bolger had a "forceful personality” and was not afraid to make his thoughts clear.
Bolger was never bitter about the coup that ousted him from Parliament, Key said, and was always willing to help when needed. They often had discussions on politics, but never really the “policies of the day”.
He said one lasting memory of Bolger was the “real joy” he got from his work, particularly his work around race relations.
Key recounted a time where he visited Bolger’s farm in Te Kuiti, where the family had a vast collection of memorabilia from his time in politics.
Sir Bill English reflects on Jim Bolger's legacy
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Former Prime Minister Sir Bill English reflected on working with Bolger on Newstalk ZB this morning.
"I worked with Jim Bolger for many years in politics; he was such an interesting mix.
"He was a conservative Taranaki farmer, who had the courage to kick off the treaty settlement process."
English was elevated to cabinet by Bolger in 1996.
"[He] took on his own party in an election year in 1996 to sign the Ngāi Tahu and Tainui settlements. So, you know, underneath the political manoeuvring was a will of steel and some deep principle," English said.
"People forget he was also the guy who brought in MMP, he made a promise in the 1990 election campaign to have a referendum, oversaw that process, accepting the will of the people, although he did, he didn't personally favour MMP, and then in 1996 negotiated the first coalition.
"He's just a fascinating character, such a mix of being true to his background, from Taranaki, his Catholic beliefs, his deep love of family on the one hand, and on the other hand, executing some of the more radical changes that New Zealand has seen, and I have to say at the time didn't get much credit for it, and I think his reputation has grown, with the benefit of hindsight history is looking kindly on Jim Bolger," English said.
'Lasting legacy': National Party issues statement on Jim Bolger
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A statement from the National Party on the passing of Jim Bolger:
"It is with great sadness that the National Party acknowledges the passing of Rt Hon Jim Bolger, former Prime Minister of New Zealand and long-serving Leader of the National Party," National Party president Sylvia Wood said.
"Born and raised in Taranaki, Jim was a lifelong advocate for rural New Zealand, Jim entered Parliament in 1972 as the Member for King Country. Over the following decades, he became one of National’s most enduring and influential figures.
"Elected Party Leader in 1986, Jim led National to a historic landslide victory in 1990 and served as Prime Minister for seven years. His steady leadership guided New Zealand through a period of profound economic and social change, including the introduction of the MMP electoral system and the advancement of Treaty settlements that continue to shape our nation today," Wood continued in a statement released this morning.
"After leaving politics in 1998, Jim continued to serve New Zealand with distinction, as Ambassador to the United States, Chair of New Zealand Post and Kiwibank, and Chancellor of the University of Waikato.
"Jim’s integrity, pragmatism, and deep belief in building a decent and fair society defined his life of public service. He leaves a lasting legacy within the National Party and the country he led with strength and conviction.
"We extend our deepest sympathy to Mrs Joan Bolger, their children, and the wider Bolger family at this sad time," Wood added.
'A New Zealander who devoted his life to our great country': Winston Peters pays tribute to Jim Bolger
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National MP Simeon Brown pays tribute to Bolger
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National MP Simeon Brown paid tribute to Bolger on social media.
"Rest in Peace Rt. Hon. Jim Bolger - a strong and effective leader of New Zealand during challenging times and a man of conviction and faith. My thoughts and prayers are with Jim’s family as they grieve their loss."
Sir Don McKinnon: Bolger provided a steady hand during 'volcanic' issues
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Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sir Don McKinnon told RNZ Bolger was "very committed to the country".
McKinnon served as deputy PM for six years under the Bolger-led National Party.
"The time when we came into office, it was absolutely volcanic with all the issues running around us. He provided a very steady hand, really, for the next decade.
"It wasn't an easy caucus for him to manage, but he did," McKinnon said.
"He was very personable, and he would talk to people individually if he had to, and so did I many times, just to slow things down a bit, steady people up, you know, things would get better. There's no need to do more than what we had to do, but we did have to do some pretty unpopular things.
"It was a degree of Irish charm; a smile occasionally would make a bit of difference, but he knew where he wanted the country to go."
McKinnon said one of the biggest legacies of the Bolger government was its commitment to addressing Treaty claims over confiscated land.
"That was a huge one for our caucus."
[Bolger] is still very highly regarded for those whom he dealt in those very early settlements, the Tainui one, the Sealords one, the Ngāi Tahu one.
"It was the right thing to do. Again, we weren't popular for doing it. In fact, we remained unpopular over that issue for probably the better part of 20 years after that."
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Months before his death, former Prime Minister Jim Bolger spoke from his Waikanae home about resilience, politics and the values he believed should guide New Zealand’s future. In an interview with political editor Audrey Young, Bolger shared candid thoughts on leadership, race relations and growing old with grace — a conversation that now stands as a portrait of conviction and humility. Read it here
Family statement
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The Bolger family advises that Jim Bolger has passed away at the age of 90.
Jim died peacefully on 15 October, surrounded by his nine children, 18 grandchildren, and his wife, Joan.
Throughout 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.
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Jim Bolger, New Zealand’s 35th Prime Minister, dies, aged 90
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Former Prime Minister Jim Bolger has died aged 90.
He had been undergoing dialysis since kidney failure last year, and celebrated his 90th birthday in May with his wife Joan, their nine children and a large gathering of friends and neighbours.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Bolger was a “towering figure in New Zealand’s 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 was much loved and will be deeply missed.”
Bolger had been undergoing dialysis since kidney failure last year, and celebrated his 90th birthday in May with a large gathering of family, friends and neighbours.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Bolger was a “towering figure in New Zealand’s 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".
“To those who worked alongside him, he was a principled and formidable colleague. To his political opponents, he was a worthy adversary who never allowed disagreement to become personal.
“And to New Zealand, he was a leader who believed in the strength of our democracy, the promise of fairness, and the dignity of service.
“On behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand, I extend our deepest condolences to Mr Bolger’s wife, Joan, his children and grandchildren, and all those who knew and loved him.
“Jim Bolger served with integrity and purpose. He leaves behind a legacy that will be studied, debated, and respected for generations.”
NZ First leader Winston Peters said Bolger was a “proud, proud New Zealander who served his country as Prime Minister during a difficult period of serious transition in our politics”.
Peters and Bolger led New Zealand’s first MMP Government from 1996 onwards, a coalition between NZ First and National.
Everyone with a knowledge of New Zealand political history from the late 1980s and early 1990s will know that the two of us sometimes had our policy differences!
“As the leader of Mr Bolger’s coalition partner, I can attest he was a man of his word. He did what he said he would do - and we ran our Coalition Government with integrity, focus and a fidelity to New Zealanders who had delivered a majority to our two political parties.
“Mr Bolger should be remembered warmly as a New Zealander who devoted his life to our great country.”
James Brendan Bolger was born in Ōpunake, Taranaki, in 1935 – the son of Irish immigrants.
He left Ōpunake High School at just 15 to work on the family farm, later farming with Joan in Rahotu and Te Kūiti before entering politics.
In 1990, Bolger led the National Party to a landslide victory – the largest in its history – to become the country’s 35th Prime Minister for seven years until 1997.
He oversaw the first of many Treaty of Waitangi settlements, later saying his Irish ancestry had helped him to engage emotionally with Māori.
During his second term in office, Bolger presided over electoral reform, including the introduction of the MMP electoral system in 1996.
That led to him forming New Zealand’s first coalition Government – with the New Zealand First Party.
Bolger later became New Zealand’s Ambassador to the United States, then Chancellor of the University of Waikato, and chairman of several state-owned enterprises, including New Zealand Post.
In 1998, he was appointed a Member of the Order of New Zealand – an honour that can be held by only 20 living New Zealanders at a time.
He is survived by his wife, Joan, and their children, Dan, Paul, Brian, Stephen, Bernadette, Fiona, Rachael, Matt and Aidan.
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