Hamish Hay

Sir Hamish Grenfell Hay (8 December 1927 – 7 September 2008) was a New Zealand politician. He served as mayor of Christchurch for fifteen years, from 1974 to 1989, and is the city's longest-serving mayor.

Early life and family Hay was one of four children of philanthropist Sir James Hay; David was his identical twin brother. They were to have five children. Topping the poll, he went on to serve as a councillor for five consecutive terms. Like his father, he was a strong proponent of a town hall (as a performing arts centre) for Christchurch. He had been involved in the 'Town Hall Promotion' lobbying organisation, serving as the chairman of its finance committee from 1958.

He stood for mayor in the election of 1974, defeating Labour incumbent Neville Pickering. He was succeeded by Vicki Buck. He published his autobiography, Hay Days, in the year of his retirement from the mayoralty.

In 1995, Hay returned to the political scene, representing Christchurch North on the Canterbury Regional Council until 2001.

Honours Hay was made a Knight Bachelor in the 1982 Queen's Birthday Honours.

Judith, Lady Hay, was appointed a Companion of the Queen's Service Order (QSO) for community service in the 1987 New Year Honours. In 1993, she was awarded the New Zealand Suffrage Centennial Medal. In the 1998 Birthday Honours, she was made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) for services to the community.

Later life Having retired from public office in 2001, Hay began suffering from Alzheimer's disease. He died in September 2008, aged 80. His funeral service was held at Knox Church. She died on 26 December 2014.