Sir Michael Hill, the founder of Michael Hill Jewellers, has died at the age of 86 after a long battle with cancer.
Michael Hill International Limited confirmed his passing on Tuesday morning, sharing a statement to the ASX and NZX that paid tribute to the celebrated jeweller and philanthropist.
'It is with great sadness that Michael Hill International Limited announces the passing of our Founder and Non-Executive Director, Sir Michael Hill this morning,' the company said.
'Sir Michael was a celebrated jeweller, entrepreneur, philanthropist and committed father and husband.
'With his wife Lady Christine, he founded and grew Michael Hill from its humble beginnings in Whangārei, New Zealand to a global retail jewellery brand that spans Australia, New Zealand and Canada.
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Sir Michael Hill, the founder of Michael Hill Jewellers, has died at the age of 86 after a battle with cancer
'It is with great sadness that Michael Hill International Limited announces the passing of our Founder and Non-Executive Director, Sir Michael Hill this morning,' the company said in a statement. Pictured with Kim Kardashian in 2010
The statement continued: 'The Board, Executive and all the Michael Hill team express their deepest and sincerest condolences to Michael's family and friends.'
He died at his family home in Arrowtown, on New Zealand's South Island.
Hill launched his first jewellery store in Whangārei in 1979, laying the groundwork for a global retail empire with hundreds of stores.
Today, the brand operates 287 stores across Australia, New Zealand and Canada.
His iconic and affordable jewellery was worn by some of the world's most famous stars, including Kim Kardashian and Miranda Kerr.
In 2010, he teamed up with Kim Kardashian he launched a business venture with US reality TV star Kim Kardashian, to find the 'world's best couple'.
The pair offered a 22-carat Michael Hill diamond engagement ring as a prize to the winners.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to Hill in a statement.
Hill launched his first jewellery store in Whangārei in 1979, laying the groundwork for a global retail empire with hundreds of stores. Pictured with daughter Emma
Hill is survived by his wife Christine and their two children
'Sir Michael Hill’s aspiration, grit, and determination to succeed not only built a globally recognised brand, but also inspired generations of Kiwi entrepreneurs to dream big,' he said.
'He built a brand from scratch and gave back to the country that he loved. May he rest in peace.'
His jewellery empire was worth over AU$700m worldwide, and he had a personal net worth of around AU$300m.
Hill was knighted in 2011 for services to business and the arts.
He is survived by his wife Christine and their two children, Mark and Emma.
