The PGA of Australia has expressed its condolences following the death of Sir Michael Hill, a prominent jewellery entrepreneur and influential figure in golf. Sir Michael died at age 86 after a battle with cancer.
Sir Michael was known for founding Michael Hill Jewellers but also played a significant role in reviving the New Zealand Open. The tournament, now a key event on the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia, was first held at The Hills golf course near Queenstown in 2007. Sir Michael was instrumental in developing the event into its current pro-am format.
Over the past decade, the New Zealand Open has become one of the most popular summer events for both professional and amateur golfers, attracting participants from various industries and sports to Queenstown.
Gavin Kirkman, CEO of the PGA of Australia, commented on Sir Michael’s contributions: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sir Michael,” Mr Kirkman said.
“The success of the New Zealand Open on the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia owes so much not only to his generosity, but the spirit in which he gave it.
“I have no doubt that the growing stature of the New Zealand Open on the global stage has been inspirational to young golfers in New Zealand and to those professionals currently playing around the world.
“He has left an indelible mark on everyone who has had the good fortune to play the New Zealand Open over the past two decades and The Hills golf course that Sir Michael so lovingly created was a magnificent venue for the 10 occasions that it hosted and co-hosted the New Zealand Open.
“Sir Michael’s legacy will live on through the New Zealand Open and through the players he impacted along the way.”
In addition to his work in golf, Sir Michael founded the Michael Hill International Violin Competition. In a 2009 interview with Australian Golf Digest, he spoke about combining his interests: “What is really great is being able to give something back to two extremely difficult things, golf and music,” Sir Michael said.
“That is a very odd combination and, just as important, with the New Zealand Open we are giving back to the community. To New Zealand and Australasia really, because I think our Australasian ties are becoming more and more important.”
Sir Michael developed an early interest in golf thanks to his parents. He designed makeshift courses as a child at his family’s property north of Whangarei using baked bean tins for holes. The Red Star Golf Club became popular among local youth golfers.
“Looking back now it’s quite funny,” he added.
“The local boys would come along and would have to pay 1-and-6 to be a member and we had tournaments, just chipping and putting.
“It’s funny how these things come back later in life.”
