Former Prime Minister Jim Bolger has died, aged 90

He was the 35th prime minister of New Zealand, serving from 1990 to 1997.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described Mr Bolger as “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.”

“Born in Taranaki to Irish immigrant parents, his early life on a dairy farm instilled in him the values of hard work, resilience, and quiet determination. These qualities would go on to define both his character and his leadership,” Mr Luxon said.

Elected to Parliament in 1972, Mr Bolger served New Zealand for more than three decades. As Prime Minister from 1990 to 1997, he led the country through a time of significant change, modernising the economy, strengthening international relations, and helping to shape the MMP electoral system that continues to serve New Zealand’s democracy today.

“While his government was sometimes tested by the scale and pace of reform, he never wavered in his belief that the role of leadership was to prepare a better future, not merely manage the present,” Mr Luxon said.

Beyond politics, Mr Bolger served as New Zealand’s Ambassador to the United States, Chancellor of the University of Waikato, and Chair of NZ Post and Kiwibank.

“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,” the Prime Minister said.

“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.”

Winston Peters also paid tribute to Mr Bolger, recalling their time together leading New Zealand’s first MMP coalition government between NZ First and National from 1996.

“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 Peters said.

“After leaving politics, Mr Bolger continued to play a role in advancing New Zealand’s interests on the international stage, including as New Zealand Ambassador to the United States at a time when we were seeking to bring our two countries closer together.”

“Mr Bolger should be remembered warmly as a New Zealander who devoted his life to our great country.”

The New Zealand Flag will be flown at half-mast today.

The Ministry for Culture and Heritage confirmed the decision, saying the gesture was a mark of mourning and respect for the former National Party leader.

All Government departments, public buildings, and naval vessels with flagpoles that normally fly the New Zealand Flag have been instructed to lower their flags to half-mast.

Flags will remain at half-mast throughout Thursday before being returned to full mast at the close of business hours.

The flag will also be flown at half-mast again on the day of Sir Jim’s funeral, with further details to be provided once arrangements are confirmed.

The Ministry reminded agencies that the flag should first be raised to the top of the mast before being lowered slowly to a recognisable half-mast position. As a guide, the flag should hang more than its own depth from the top of the flagpole to ensure it does not appear to have slipped accidentally.