What an amazing man Bill Smale ~ An inspiration to so many. Rest In Peace.

Bill it was lovely to hear the tributes to you today and read them on this tribute website. You were a very lively, outgoing person and your loss will be felt by all. You leave a great legacy with everything you have done during your life. Heartfelt condolences to the Smale Family.

In a way it is comforting to know that Bill is now at peace in the warm loving care of God / Divine Supreme Law of the Universe. Nevertheless, we are all overcome with grief at his passing. He had been an awesome Chairman for the Body Corporate of the Perspective Apartment Complex, with a vision to transform the complex into a beautiful lively and friendly community. Under his watch, the Body Corporate Team had competently done the massive roof upgrade and replacement, transformed the stone-covered courtyard into a cosy garden cum open lounge, for everyone to enjoy. Unfortunately, he did not have the chance to see all his plans come to fruition, though the breezeway upgrade around the complex is now near completion. Every Christmas Bill had also personally financed and decorated the complex with delightful lights of reindeer, sleigh, and Xmas trees etc. Bill had also generously open his home for residents to enjoy the view of the Sky Tower fireworks and participate in the New Year countdown. Bill had been wonderfully gracious, kind, caring, humble, and generous with everyone in need of help. Bill was so approachable and would lend a helping hand, share his knowledge and expertise when called upon. A genius in problem solving. I am forever grateful to him and Shayne for all the help and support given over the years. Bill will be sadly missed and dearly remembered forever as the Jolly Good Fellow with a big heart! Gone too soon! Emily Koh 24 July 2026

These tributes are everything I remember about Bill and they just reinforce the awesome human Bill was. I am incredibly privileged to have known Bill for my entire life, childhood to adulthood, and got to witness all of the attributes listed across generosity, care, mentorship and an awesome sense of humour. This includes everything Bill did and led from school activities, pick-ups and drop off’s when mum/dad were unavailable with shift work, some questionable rides from parties, a wide variety of various events and right through to more recent times where it’d be a quick chat over the phone when coincidently heading down the motorway a few cars apart. The stories, the guidance the laughs will forever be with me. I am also grateful for the huge trust that Bill demonstrated in me over the years and those learnings have contributed to what I have achieved to date. For this Bill, genuinely thank you. In true Bill memory (for me at least) it wouldn’t be fitting to not end on a laugh so here goes: 1) Corporate Event: [Bill] “Try this cheese”. [Me] “I’m not sure I’ll like it”. [Bill] “You bloody well will at the price I paid for it…”. 2) Laser Light Show (after closing - over radio): [Worker] “Andrew, there is a car doing burnouts in the carpark”. [2IC] “Is that a black ute by chance?”. [Worker] “Yes”. [2IC] “Not to worry, that’s just Bill…”. Rest in peace, hope they have V8’s in the afterlife.

Bill was one of a kind. I still remember freezing our asses off at Fieldays trade show in the middle of winter, thinking this would absolutely suck if Bill wasn't around. He had witty, and sometimes questionable jokes that without his charismatic way about him, would have gotten most people in trouble. He had a rare gift for making people feel good after he spoke to them. He was an energiser. His attitude and jokes were infectious, and he was someone I just loved being around. He taught me many valuable life lessons over the past 12 years, including that you don't have to fit into some boring mould to be successful. Just be yourself. The world needs more Bills. Rest in peace, legend. Thank you.

You will be deeply missed Bill. You played an incredibly important role in my life, all the way from young enterprise, year 12 days till last month. Bill was my mentor, friend and someone I've aspired to be all my life. He's always had my back, and supported me through both tough and easy times, Bill was always cheering me on. He taught me so much about business, about giving back and not just being ambitious for yourself and family, but more importantly your community. Eventually as I got to know you more, some of the best parts of us meeting was just the jokes you cracked, every time, even if I had a stressful day - I felt relieved not just because of your wisdom but your jokes! Bill's made the single biggest impact on entrepreneurship for young kiwis - Openground will be the foundation of why Kiwis have more entrepreneurship at an education level. I will miss you, and am grateful to ever have known you. It's a surreal feeling that I can't just pick up the phone and call you.

I had the pleasure of meeting Bill after being introduced by Tom when we worked together. Bill always took the time to stop and say hello whenever he passed the meeting room. He always had a quick joke or story to share and had a wonderful way of making everyone he met feel welcome and at ease. Rest in peace, Bill. I will always remember your warmth and kindness.

Bill, you will be forever remembered as one of the most kind, generous, and thoughtful people I've ever had the privilege to know. Reading through these tributes reinforces the impact you have had on so many of our lives. How blessed we all are. I will always cherish the memories I have of your cheeky sense of humour, your impromptu dinner and coffee invitations, your perfectly barbecued steaks, beautiful collection of cars, fastidious care of our apartment complex, and so much more. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you -- and your beautiful earth angel partner Shayne -- have done for me over the years. From our first meeting to the last time I visited with you a few weeks ago, you were the same gracious, humble gentleman who gave so much to so many. Thank you. May you rest in peace. The world won't be the same without you but I know you'll be around keeping us all in check! Much love and heartfelt gratitude for your friendship, kindness, and generosity. I'll miss you dearly. Until we meet again... Lavinia

So….. reading all the tributes to date Bill, I can agree that everything said by those who knew and loved you is true. What a guy! Your attitude towards life, your generous care and consideration of those who crossed paths with you - all of it, as already expressed so well. For me - you were the coolest of cousins I could ask for. Thanks for all the good times. Picking me up from work in ‘today’s surprise car’ and having lunch with me which you graciously let me pay for (usually). My favourite was the Rolls :-), though who would complain about an Aston or Audi? The planning /organising together of our Family Reunion - doing anything with you was easy, positive, efficient and FUN! Accompanying you as your ‘date’ to various functions (where no one knew I was your cousin - and usually caused a bit of intrigue about Bill’s ‘mystery’ date). More mischievous fun! And today, we bid you farewell Bill. You faced and fought this cruel, final challenge so positively. You gave it your all… so brave throughout ….. until you were spent and could give no more. Same attitude as you adopted for the rest of your life - Upbeat and positive - giving your all. What a guy! I miss you already. Thank you, thank you from all of us. Rest now Bill.

I’m so sad to hear about Bill’s passing. I have so many great memories of time spent with Bill over the years. My family stayed at the Takapuna motel for a few months when relocating to Auckland and then a few years later Bill gave me a job at the motel on the weekends when I was a university student. I have great memories of our morning tea breaks with French bread and cheese! Our visit with you in Pauanui and our day out on your boat is a memory that I’ll always cherish. Condolences to all of Bill’s family and friends.

Dear Bill, although aware you were approaching the journey we all must take, I wasn’t ready for you to go. I’m still not ready. Our neighbourhood in Pauanui will not be the same without the moments of friendship Shirley and I shared with you and Shayne. If there’s an afterlife, it is the richer for your presence while we are the poorer for our loss. Pitt Ramsay

Not many quite have the presence approachability that Bill brought to every moment. From business to casual conversations Bill brough intelligence, wit and humour every interaction. Not my peer by age nor position I considered Bill not only a colleague but a friend. On a personal level, he took the time to get to know me and my family, and we will all miss him dearly. To one of the legends, forever young at heart. Bill love Bill, from the Dunlop family x

I still can't believe that Bill has left us. To me, Bill was like the Sky Tower — always there, a constant presence in Auckland. It's hard to imagine this city without him. I first met Bill on the first day I arrived in New Zealand. In fact, we had already spoken on the phone before I even landed, when he was helping me with my visa application. Bill was always there whenever I needed help, just as he was for so many others — whether they were lifelong friends, students from college or complete strangers. He had a remarkable generosity and kindness that touched everyone around him. Bill was not only a dear friend but also a mentor as I learned to navigate life in New Zealand. Over the past week, I haven't been able to stop thinking about all the little things he taught me. They may seem simple, but they remind me of him every day: how to protect myself when dating, how to feel better after having too much to drink, to wipe down the shower after using it to prevent watermarks, how to cut sweetcorn perfectly, and even to add a little whisky to hot lemon water when I had a cold... Bill, thank you for all the wonderful memories we shared, for your kindness, your wisdom, and for always looking out for me. I will carry those memories with me always, and every time I remember one of your little life lessons, I'll think of you. Farewell, Bill. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. ❤️

I’ve known Bill since we first started at Takapuna Primary school in 1957 he’d been there for a couple of months when I started. Then in primer two we both decided to run away from school one morning because we didn’t like our teacher who was always seemingly in a bad temper and yelling at us and everyone else but it worked and we were put with another teacher. We went through all the schools together along with many people that Bill kept in touch with and always updated on any news of them when he came down to Nelson. Bill was extremely kind and generous to me in these later years if it wasn’t for his support and help I wouldn’t have been able to keep my house here in Motueka. He would always ask if I was doing ok when he visited and if I needed any help with anything on the property. I always looked forward to Bill and Shayne coming to Nelson and going out to lunch or wandering through the art and craft shops of Nelson. He was always a kind and good friend always understanding and very generous . I remember the last thing he said to me when I left his apartment when he last came to Nelson a couple of months ago he said we will see each other again and I believe we will. Thanks for all your kindness and generosity Bill.

I had the privilege of knowing Bill for almost 20 years. He was one of the biggest influences during my time growing up in New Zealand without my parents. Bill was like a father, a mentor, and a great friend to me. His kindness, generosity, and guidance helped shape the person I am today. I can never thank him enough for the positive influence he had on my life, and it is something I will never forget. Rest in peace, Bill. You will always be remembered and deeply missed.

Bill… when we met more than 18 years ago, I could never have imagined how deeply you would become part of our lives. You were there through it all — the good times, the hard times, and all the in-between days. Always steady, always present. One of the truest friends we’ve ever had. So humble, so kind, so quietly special in the way you showed up for people without ever asking for anything in return. If your day was already full, you would still make time. That was simply who you were. We’ll miss your jokes, your stories, and the way you could make any conversation memorable. You will be deeply missed. My heart is heavy, and there are no easy words for this kind of goodbye. Rest in peace, dear Bill. You were truly loved, and we will carry your friendship in our hearts always. 🌿

Bill, I will miss our breakfasts together, which were always a highlight of my week, they often ended up in tears, tears of laughter! You were such a humble man, and always there to help anyone that needed it, no matter how much you had on your plate at the time, often stretching yourself too far, but that was you. Your trip to Nelson a few weeks ago was a demonstration of your determination, I thought it was impossible under the circumstances, but as usual, you said you were going to do it, and you did! Nelson to Wellington in the car in one day! You will be missed by many, but we will resume our breakfasts in the future when we meet again. Lot's of Love Glenn Tulloch

It is with great sadness that I say goodbye to Bill. I had the privilege of knowing Bill for over 20 years. During that time, he became much more than a friend to me—he was a mentor, a trusted adviser, and someone I deeply respected. Whenever I needed guidance, whether in life, business, or simply a different perspective, Bill was always there with thoughtful advice, genuine encouragement, and his own unique way of making everything seem a little easier. What I'll remember most, though, was Bill's cheeky personality and wonderful sense of humour. He always seemed to have a witty comment or a joke ready at just the right moment. He had an incredible ability to make people laugh, put them at ease, and brighten any conversation. That warmth, combined with his wisdom, made him someone people naturally wanted to be around. One thing I will always regret is not making more time to catch up with him. Life became busy, and although we didn't see each other as often as I would have liked, every time we did it felt like no time had passed. Those conversations were always full of laughter, great stories, honest advice, and friendship. Bill touched so many lives through his kindness, generosity, humour, and willingness to help others. I feel incredibly fortunate to have known him and to have called him not only my mentor but also my dear friend. Thank you, Bill, for over 20 years of friendship, guidance, laughter, and unforgettable memories. The lessons you shared and the example you set will stay with me for the rest of my life. Rest peacefully, my dear friend. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. My heartfelt condolences to Bill's family and to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Bill was a wonderful person to have in my life, a deeply cherished friend, and a constant support to everyone around him. His generosity and kindness were second to none. Anyone who spent time with Bill knew the sheer warmth, clever wit, and vibrant energy he brought into every room. Whether he was casually talking his way out of a speeding ticket, defusing high-stakes tension with a perfectly timed joke, or effortlessly paving a positive path forward when challenges arose, Bill had an unmistakable gift. He was as kind and genuine as he was sharp. His favourite colour, orange, couldn't have been more fitting. It shines just as bright, warm, and full of life as Bill did every single day. I miss him dearly. May he rest in peace, and may his kind, radiant spirit continue to guide us into the future while we keep him forever in our hearts. My deepest love, thoughts, and condolences are with Shayne, Jacqui, Jason and his family.

Bill, Was great to know you, you will be missed. Rest in peace. Your life was a gift, your memory a blessing, and your legacy everlasting.

It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to Bill. A gentleman in every sense of the word, a dear friend of over fifteen years, and a true part of our family. To Shayne, Bill's devoted partner, I offer my deepest love. Over the last fifteen years, we travelled together through New Zealand, my hometown Puer in China, and across America, from New York to San Francisco, from Yellowstone to Las Vegas. Everywhere we went, Bill saw the people, not just the sights. He connected with strangers, remembered names, and left every place warmer than he found it. But what truly defined Bill was his heart. He fought unfairness, championed the outsiders, and saw kindness where others saw difference. His generosity knew no bounds, whether mentoring the young, helping the elderly. Bill made the world a fairer, kinder, and more inclusive place simply by being in it. Thank you for everything, Bill. For the laughter, the journeys, and the love you gave our family. You were one of a kind, and I will miss you forever. With love and gratitude, Jiejing Lu

I will miss your cheeky sense of humour, your matter of fact conversations, your eccentric glasses and your life advice. I am so grateful to have had you as a dear friend and we have lost a true icon. I am glad you’re now free of pain and I hope the champagne is flowing freely where you are (or even the Astrolabe Pinot Gris). I promise to keep giving Shayne bear hugs for you. Rest easy you beautiful human xx

Bill was one of those rare people who gave their time generously, even when there was nothing in it for them. In the very early days of my entrepreneurial journey, when I had little more than ambition and big dreams, he always made time to sit down with me, challenge my thinking, and share his wisdom. He never had to, but he did, and I’ll never forget that. Bill, thank you for believing in young kiwi founders, for your encouragement, your humour, and your generosity. The impact you had on me and I’m sure so many others will continue long after you’re gone. Rest in peace.

Such a kind, warm and generous man. A special person that I was privileged to spend time with.

Bill was an inspiration to us all and an amazing friend to my mother Carol. Bill believed in us and our mission to help solve loneliness for seniors around Australia and NZ when nobody else did. Every week, thousands meet in person through Chirpy and it’s because of Bills passion and encouragement. Thank you Bill, we will always remember and be forever grateful! Shaun Mahoney

Bill gave so much to the younger generation. I was lucky enough to get his sound advice in my early days that gave me confidence to do what I am doing today. Such a great man, that won’t be forgotten. Thank you for everything Bill.

In addition to his support of Westlake Boys, Bill was a huge supporter of Young Enterprise for many years. Bill leaves a legacy of having positively impacted the lives of so many young people. RIP Bill

Bill, such a beautiful person with such a youthful spirit. A true delight and privilege to know. From a customer to a friend. We will miss you & miss your warm, kind energy, your laugh & beautiful face - Thank you for being the wonderful person that you are. Lots of love forever, the team @ Feenix Xxx

Our friend Bill, we were so privileged that our paths did cross - thanks to dear Barbara! Even so we only had a handful of years, we so so enjoyed the times we did share with you and Shayne! You were a man of integrity, passion and kindness all washed down with a wonderful sense of humor and fun! You often referred to me as "Trouble" - we were like minded in that regard for sure! You tackled your biggest challenge with dignity and tenacity, always positive. We will certainly miss your presence but you will live on in our hearts! Thank you for your friendship.

Bill was a once-in-a-lifetime human being. A special man who had ideas beyond his years, and the energy and enthusiasm to implement them well before his years. It was an absolute pleasure working with him and getting to know him. My sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family and to all Westlakers, current and past.

Bill I will miss the funny stories that you could recall at all those Grand kid birthdays. I always looked forward to seeing what you were giving them. Your gift choices were the best ! You had such a kind heart and a lovely down to earth nature. New Zealand has lost a great man who has gone way to soon.

Hey cousin, I will miss our chats especially about family history and your many projects. You were always down to earth and a positive outlook on life. RIP

Dear Bill, my wonderful contact regarding renting car parks at Perspective, will have fond memories of our coffee catch ups and the advice on life, thank you for all the help you’ve given over our 18 years of business, I can’t believe your gone, I’m so saddened. Rest in Peace dear Bill and I’m sure there’s a Rolls Royce waiting for you up there (or was it a Porsche or Bentley - I couldn’t keep up)!! Karolina xx

Bill was an incredibly supportive and smart businessperson who truly invested in people as well as business. Many of his contributions will be unknown as he touched so many lives in so many different ways.

Thank you Bill, for being such a wonderful friend for over 50 yrs and for being my late husband Ian Ginns’ caring friend since childhood days on Pupuke Road, Takapuna. The memories of your infectious smile, your laughter and fun-filled stories may no longer be, but they will always be remembered. During this difficult time please know we are thinking of you Shayne, Jacqueline, Jason and Carolyn, our deepest sympathy to you all. You will be forever in our hearts dear Bill. Love Jenny and Rob Ginns ❤

Dearest Bill, There are some people who pass through our lives, and there are others who quietly shape them forever. You were one of those rare people. You believed in me when my dreams were still just ideas. You saw potential where I often saw uncertainty. You encouraged me, challenged me, forgave my mistakes, and celebrated every small step forward. Your faith gave me the courage to keep going. Good Boy Billy will always carry a part of you. It is more than a café, it is a reminder of your kindness, your vision, and your unwavering belief that something special could be built with hard work, honesty, and love. I promise to keep working hard, to honour the values you taught me, and to make you proud. The greatest legacy you leave behind is not only what you built, but the lives you touched. I am one of many who stand taller because you took the time to believe in us. Thank you for every conversation, every lesson, every laugh, every word of encouragement, and every moment of generosity. I will treasure them for the rest of my life. I hope you have found peace. I hope you know just how deeply you were loved, respected, and appreciated. Until we meet again, Your leash may no longer be in your hands, but your good boy will keep walking the path you showed him, with loyalty, courage, humility, and love. Rest peacefully my dearest. You will forever be our angels.

Dad, Always there when I called, consistently supportive throughout my life. You gave me so much of who I am today. Forever young at heart. Rest easy.

Bill, it was such a pleasure getting to know you over the last 5 years. I loved our lunch catch ups that were filled with laughter, great coffee & fun conversations. You’ll be greatly missed, may you rest in peace X

It's been a pleasure to know you Bill & we appreciated our great friendship we had for 44 year's plus.We enjoyed many times together over this time,you always put a smile on our faces when we got those calls be at your place soon with my new car & over the year's we got a few of those.as John & I loved & enjoyed nice cars as Bill did.over the year's our time together was always fun,laughter,& good conversation & always enjoyed Bill's company. Bill will be deeply missed by us all. Thinking of you all at this sad time.Rest in Peace our friend 🧡. Carol & John Payne

Bill’s passing is a monumental, aching loss for me personally, and an equally devastating blow to the community he served so quietly and profoundly. He made the world a fairer, kinder, and more inclusive place just by being in it. His generosity was entirely blind to age, ethnicity, gender, or social status. If you were a young person struggling to find direction, Bill was the mentor who would step in to guide and ground you. If you were an elderly person facing hardships, whether mental, physical, or financial, Bill was there to quietly and selflessly provide relief. "To have a partner who always has your back is a blessing in business. To have a friend who teaches you how to be a better human being is a blessing in life." Thank you for everything, Bill. For the loyalty, the laughs, the arguments we settled, and the business we built together. I will miss you forever.

Bill, it has been an honour and a privilege to know you over the past few years. You had a fantastic sense of humour, and were amazing to work with, learn from, hear funny stories from, and get guidance and mentorship from. I always loved our chats about business, cars, education and life. I am so grateful to have gotten to participate in the Openground Programme you founded, which truly changed the direction of my life (and my attendance at school), and then to be able to continue working alongside you to expand the programme. I know there are countless other young people you have helped who feel the same. You made such an impact on so many lives, especially my own. I will forever cherish the memories of the time we have spent together. Rest peacefully, you will be missed.

Bill will always hold a treasured place in the Yarrell’s hearts. We lived with Bill for two years while we got back on our feet and he treated me and my siblings like a father. We love you Bill, and are going to miss you so very dearly. There’s a special place in heaven for a man like you. Louis

Bill ，thanks for all the support and happiness. We miss you.And we will look after Shayne.

Bill thank you for your friendship over the years,your sense of humour,wisdom and advice. Rest in peace my friend.

We remember the day we first met Bill—it felt as though sunshine and warmth had walked into our shop. He first came in as a customer, but it didn’t take long before he and Shayne became treasured friends. Bill had a wonderful sense of humour, an effortless sense of style, and a love of beautiful cars. As an opticians, we always smiled because his glasses had to complement whichever car he happened to be driving. It was so quintessentially Bill—he appreciated beauty, detail and quality, but never took himself too seriously. Wherever he went, he brought warmth, laughter and personality. Time spent in his company was always enjoyable, and conversations were filled with wit and kindness. One of our fondest memories is staying with Bill and Shayne in their home. Those days together are moments we will always cherish. We feel truly grateful to have known Bill, and we will carry his memory with us always, holding onto the hope that we may meet again one day. Friendships like his are rare gifts. Bill leaves behind memories filled with laughter, generosity and genuine warmth. UWe will remember him with deep affection and gratitude, and we feel privileged that our lives crossed paths. Rest peacefully, Bill. You will be greatly missed.

It was wonderful meeting you, Bill. Thank you for sharing your life with me. Rest peacefully, free from pain. Farewell, until we meet again.

Bill was a dear friend for many years, and his passing leaves a space that cannot be filled. He was a kind, caring, and genuine man whose friendship was deeply valued. Bill had a quiet way of making people feel welcome and appreciated, and his warmth and sincerity touched everyone who knew him. I will always be grateful for the years we shared, the helpful advice he gave, and the respected opinions he offered. True friends are rare, and Bill was one of them. While we mourn his passing, we also give thanks for a life well lived and for the kindness and friendship he shared so freely. Rest in peace, Bill. You will be greatly missed and always remembered.

Thank you Bill for being such a wonderful Father to our two children Jacqui and Jason and a wonderful Poppa to our grandchildren. And I also thank you for your friendship to me over these last 19 years. It was an honour to have been your wife for 26 years and I am going to miss you dearly. Life is so unfair and I ask why do they take the good ones. Love you always Carolyn 💕

We are so very sad to hear of Bill’s passing. Even though you know the prognosis, it sure is raw when it happens. We send our deepest sympathies to you all. Roger and I thought the world of Bill. He had a great personality and gave back such a lot to the community that we know he will be sorely missed by everyone he came into contact with. Life can be so unfair. With our deepest sympathy, Barb and Roger.

Dad you were one of a kind, so supportive and caring. Truely lucky to call you my father.

A Tribute to Bill: My Business Partner, My Confidant, and My Friend It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to Bill, a man who was not only my close friend and trusted business partner, but a true anchor in my life and a pillar of our community. Through Bill, my world grew exponentially. He had a rare gift for connecting people, and through him, I had the privilege of meeting countless talented, kind, and brilliant individuals who enriched both my professional and personal life. What truly defined Bill, however, went far beyond our boardrooms and business goals. Bill possessed a rare, fierce sense of justice and a heart that knew no boundaries. He fought unfairness: Bill absolutely loathed seeing anyone treated unfairly. He championed the outsiders: If someone was neglected, put down, or cast aside because they weren't "mainstream" or were simply different, Bill became their biggest advocate. He didn't care about social norms; he cared about human dignity. He saw what others missed: Where some saw flaws or differences, Bill saw raw talent and inherent kindness. His generosity was entirely blind to age, ethnicity, sex, or social status. If you were a young person struggling to find direction, Bill was the mentor who would step in to guide and ground you. If you were an elderly person facing hardships—whether mental, physical, or financial—Bill was there to quietly and selflessly provide relief. Bill’s passing is a monumental, aching loss for me personally, and an equally devastating blow to the community he served so quietly and profoundly. He made the world a fairer, kinder, and more inclusive place just by being in it. "To have a partner who always has your back is a blessing in business. To have a friend who teaches you how to be a better human being is a blessing in life." Thank you for everything, Bill. For the loyalty, the laughs, the arguments we settled, and the business we built together. I will miss you forever.