Sir Tim Shadbolt, the legendary "mayor of two cities" and one of New Zealand’s most enduring political and cultural icons, has passed away at the age of 78.
The Shadbolt family announced his passing via the official Sir Tim Facebook page on Thursday morning, January 8, 2026.
"It is with heavy hearts, the Shadbolt family announce the passing of our 'one of a kind' and beloved Tim, whom passed away in the early hours of Thursday," the statement read. "Tim loved life and he loved serving the citizens of Invercargill and the former Waitemata City. He was a poet, concreter, political activist, writer, ballroom dancer, boxer, sports enthusiast, historian, entertainer, family man, and gifted public speaker. Tim loved people and they loved him. Our hearts are broken."
A Legacy of Service and Charisma
Sir Tim was the longest-serving mayor in Invercargill's history, holding the office from 1993 to 1995 and again from 1998 to 2022. Combined with his tenure as the Mayor of Waitemata City (1983–1989), he remains one of the longest-serving mayors in the history of New Zealand.
The Invercargill City Council (ICC) issued a tribute to the man who famously "put Invercargill on the map."
"Sir Tim was a huge advocate for Invercargill and tirelessly championed for its people. His impact and legacy will be remembered for generations to come," the ICC statement said. To honor this legacy, the city officially renamed its airport terminal to the Sir Tim Shadbolt Terminal in 2024.
Invercargill Mayor Tom Campbell said he extended his condolences on behalf of the community, adding, “Sir Tim served an incredible eight terms as Mayor of Invercargill, and he leaves an enormous legacy within our community. He was widely known, not only for his genuine pride in our community and the people within it, but equally for his colourful personality, infectious enthusiasm, and his tireless advocacy for Invercargill – both locally and throughout the country. His absence will be deeply felt.”
Campbell also reflected on Sir Tim’s roots in political activism during the 1960s and 70s, describing it as the foundation of his lifelong civic commitment. “While our city was not originally the place he called home, Invercargill will always be proud to claim him as one of its own.”
Sir Tim’s legacy includes his strong support for Invercargill Airport, where he advocated for international status and oversaw the introduction of direct Auckland flights in 2019. He also championed the Southern Institute of Technology’s ‘fees free’ policy, a key driver in the region’s economic development.
“It was while he was campaigning for his second stint as Invercargill Mayor that Sir Tim promised to put Invercargill on the map. There are very few people who could claim to have done that in a more genuine or memorable way than Sir Tim,” Campbell added.
Invercargill City Council Chief Executive Michael Day acknowledged the impact Sir Tim had across the organisation and community. “Many Councillors, Council staff, and community members had the opportunity to work closely with Sir Tim during his tenure as Mayor, and experienced first-hand his energy, conviction, and commitment to his community. His legacy is one that will endure across generations.”
To honour his memory, the Council’s Coat of Arms flag will fly at half-mast. A Book of Condolence will be available for signing at Civic Building and the Bluff Service Centre, with a digital version online at icc.govt.nz. Floral tributes may be left by the Blade of Grass sculpture on Esk Street, and the public is asked to use biodegradable materials only. All written tributes will be preserved by the Archives team. Funeral details will be confirmed and shared in due course.
SIT Students, Staff and SIT Council
Remembering Sir Tim Shadbolt from the Students and Staff of SIT
Tēna tātou e te whānau
It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Sir Tim Shadbolt, former Mayor of Invercargill and a steadfast advocate for education, opportunity, and the Southland community.
Sir Tim was a passionate and unwavering champion of the Zero Fees Scheme, believing strongly that access to education should not be limited by financial circumstance. His advocacy for this initiative helped shape the identity of the Southern Institute of Technology and opened pathways for countless learners whose lives were transformed through study and skills development.
He was also a strong supporter of the internationalisation of the SIT Invercargill campus. Sir Tim recognised the value that international students bring — not only to SIT, but to the wider community — enriching our campus culturally, strengthening global connections, and contributing to the vitality of Invercargill and the region. His vision extended beyond local boundaries, positioning SIT as a place of learning with an international outlook.
In addition, Sir Tim was a determined supporter of SIT’s autonomy, consistently standing up for the institute’s right to serve its community in a way that reflected local needs and aspirations. His advocacy was grounded in a deep belief in fairness, inclusion, and community wellbeing.
Sir Tim was a distinctive and influential figure whose commitment to education and social equity leaves a lasting legacy. His impact will continue to be felt in our students, our graduates, and in the opportunities SIT provides to learners from across New Zealand and around the world.
On behalf of SIT, we extend our sincere condolences to Sir Tim’s whānau, friends, and the Invercargill and Southland communities.
Nāku noa, nā
SIT Students, Staff and SIT Council.
Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds Acknowledges Sir Tim's Contribution
“It is with great sadness that I acknowledge the passing of Sir Tim Shadbolt,” Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds said today.
“I had the privilege of knowing Sir Tim for many decades and was honoured to work alongside him as he championed SIT’s zero fees scheme – a transformative initiative that helped rejuvenate our city.
“He also successfully promoted the extension of the Invercargill Airport, supported the development of Stadium Southland and the SIT Velodrome, and oversaw renovations of the Civic Theatre and Splash Palace, receiving a knighthood in 2019 for his services to local government and the community.
“He was a person of remarkable character – charismatic and engaging, yet also deeply caring, with an unmatched passion for Invercargill and its people.
“Having served an extraordinary 24 consecutive years as Mayor, his contribution to the city is both significant and enduring.
“A committed and proud advocate for the South, Sir Tim reshaped Invercargill’s image, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
“He was a valued colleague and a dear friend, and I firmly believe our city is the better for his leadership and service.
“I extend my sincere condolences to Asha, Declan, and Sir Tim’s extended family at this difficult time.”
Christopher Luxon - Prime Minister of New Zealand
I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Tim Shadbolt.
Few New Zealanders have given such devoted public service as Sir Tim. He served Southlanders and Aucklanders for decades – with a smile on his face and a distinctive charm.
He devoted his career to making his community a better place – and his country thanks him for it. May he rest in peace.
From Radical Activist to Knight of the Realm
Born Timothy Richard Shadbolt in 1947, his journey into the public eye began as a student activist at the University of Auckland. He was a founding member of the Progressive Youth Movement and was famously arrested 33 times during various protests in the 1960s and 70s. His 1971 autobiography, Bullshit and Jellybeans, became a foundational text for a generation of New Zealanders seeking social change.
In 1983, he shocked the political establishment by winning the mayoralty of Waitemata City. He famously celebrated by towing his concrete mixer, named "Karl Marx," behind the mayoral Daimler.
After moving south, he was embraced by the people of Invercargill, who saw in him a champion for the regions. Under his watch, the city saw significant growth, including the Zero Fees scheme at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT), which he vigorously supported.
A Man of the People
Beyond politics, Sir Tim was a constant fixture in New Zealand pop culture. He appeared on Dancing with the Stars, had a cameo in The World's Fastest Indian alongside Anthony Hopkins, and set a Guinness World Record for the longest television interview (26 hours).
In 2019, he was awarded a knighthood (KNZM) for his services to the community and local government.
"While Southland was not originally the place he called home, Invercargill will always be proud to claim him as one of its own," the ICC said.
Sir Tim is survived by his family and a nation that will long remember his trademark wide-mouthed grin and his unwavering belief in the power of the people. Funeral details are expected to be shared by the family in the coming days.