Face of the Day

Sir Bill Birch, a former senior minister in two National Governments, has died at 92.

His most senior role was Minister of Finance from 1993 to 1999 in the fourth National Government, serving Prime Ministers Jim Bolger, who became a close friend, and Jenny Shipley.

He also served in the third National Government, where, as Minister for National Development, he oversaw the construction of a string of energy projects that came to be known as “Think Big”.

In a statement, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon paid tribute to the late politician.

“Sir William Birch was a giant of the National Party and delivered more for our country than he would ever take credit for,” Luxon said.

“His close to 30 years in Parliament coincided with a period of significant reform as we modernised our economy and grappled with who we are as a country. Throughout, Sir William maintained his legendary diligence and work ethic, knowing that the sacrifices of public life were worth it to leave a better country for future generations.

“On behalf of the Government and the National Party, I express my deepest condolences to his family and thank them for sharing him with all of us for so many years.”

Birch entered Parliament in 1972, representing the Franklin electorate. He served until 1999, though his electorate changed names and boundaries to Rangiriri, Maramura and Port Waikato.

NZ Herald