William Richardson

Southlander Bill Richardson's sudden death in 2005 left a gaping hole in the region's business community. He was governing director of the family-owned holding company, H W Richardson Group, a diverse empire employing more than 1000 staff and turning over about $400 million a year.

The group's 26 companies operated from more than 70 locations throughout New Zealand.

The Richardson empire started in 1878 in the small Southland township of Wyndham with roots in the building industry. Its activities expanded to include ready-mix concrete, transport, fuel distribution, roading, sand, gravel and lime. Allied Concrete, Southern Transport, SouthRoads and Allied Petroleum featured among its better-known brands.

(Harold) William Richardson

Inducted: 2005
Industry: Transport

DOD: 2005