Former Prime Minister Jim Bolger Passes Away at 88

Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jim Bolger has died at the age of 88, as confirmed by his family. He passed away peacefully on the evening of October 5, 2023, surrounded by his wife, Joan Bolger, and their nine children and 18 grandchildren. The family expressed their gratitude for the support they received during his illness, particularly acknowledging the care provided by the renal team at Wellington Regional Hospital and Wellington Free Ambulance.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised Bolger as a “towering figure” in New Zealand’s political landscape. He described him as a leader of conviction and a reformer whose contributions have profoundly shaped the nation. Winston Peters, the Foreign Affairs Minister and Bolger’s coalition partner in New Zealand’s first MMP government, noted that Bolger was a man of his word who continued to advocate for the country’s interests long after his political career.

Bolger was born in 1935 to Irish immigrants in the Taranaki town of Ōpunake. Earlier this year, he reflected on his heritage during an interview, stating that his Irish background allowed him to empathize with the Māori community. He emphasized his commitment to cultural diversity and his opposition to racism, advocating for redress for Māori issues throughout his life. Notably, he played a key role in negotiating the 2008 settlement for the Atihau-Whanganui Incorporation, securing $23.5 million in compensation from the government.

Bolger’s journey into politics began after he worked in farming, following his education at Ōpunake High School. He married Joan Riddell in 1963 and entered politics through the Federated Farmers organization. In 1972, he won the newly established King Country seat for the National Party, building his majority from an initial 1,200 to over 10,000 votes, holding the seat for 25 years.

His political career advanced rapidly; after becoming a minister under Prime Minister Robert Muldoon in 1978, Bolger served as deputy leader and was elected leader of the National Party in 1986. He was known for his sensitivity to public sentiment, often shifting his policies in response to changing opinions. This included a notable pivot away from the party’s anti-nuclear stance following the 1987 election defeat.

Bolger’s leadership culminated in the 1990 election, where the National Party secured a decisive victory, allowing him to serve as Prime Minister for seven years. His government implemented significant reforms, including cuts to welfare benefits and changes to healthcare and industrial relations. Despite facing criticism for extending Labour’s New Right policies, Bolger sought to soften the party’s image after narrowly winning re-election in 1993 by replacing his hardline finance minister, Ruth Richardson.

The 1996 election marked the introduction of the MMP electoral system, leading to Bolger forming a coalition government with New Zealand First. The negotiations were contentious, with some within his party believing he conceded too much. The coalition struggled during its first year, and Bolger’s popularity declined, culminating in his ousting in late 1997 by Jenny Shipley.

Following his departure from parliament in April 1998, Bolger took on the role of ambassador to the United States. He continued to engage in public life, serving as chairman of several organizations, including New Zealand Post and Kiwibank. In 2021, he voiced concerns about free-market capitalism, stating it was “on the verge of destroying the planet.” A strong advocate for New Zealand to become a republic, he declined to accept imperial honors but was appointed a Member of the Order of New Zealand in 1998.

Bolger received numerous accolades throughout his life, including the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977 and an honorary doctorate from Massey University in 2002. He often credited his wife, Joan, for her unwavering support during his career, famously stating, “I’ve had a wonderful life with a wonderful wife and family and it’s all been good.”

His legacy as a committed public servant and advocate for social justice will be remembered by many in New Zealand and beyond.