Benjamin (Benji) Hartfield

Benjamin (Benji) Hartfield

Our Benji Hartfield (artist and gardener) died suddenly and unexpectedly on Monday 26 January after a long struggle with his mental health. He was 26. So dearly loved by and an inspiration to so many. He will be forever loved and missed by his parents Jane and Michael, his sister Olivia who he adored, and his family and many friends.

He lived his faith.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at St Hilda’s Church, Island Bay, Wellington at 2pm on Sunday 1 February. Everyone is welcome.

“There is still light; now hidden but not gone.”

In lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a contribution to support people in real need, please consider Anglican Missions (www.anglicanmissions.org.nz) where Michael works.

To view the livestream or to send a tribute please go to lychgate.co.nz/upcoming-funerals/ Message to the family can also be sent c/o Lychgate Funerals, 306 Willis Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011

Tributes

Bev Jarvis

Jane, Mike & Olivia,
We were so incredibly sorry to hear of Benji’s passing. We have such fond memories of Benji and Brooke playing football together when they were younger. Wishing you peace and strength at this sad time.
Love
Bev, Darryl, Jarrod & Brooke Jarvis xx

Elizabeth Bruce

Dear Mike, Jane and Olivia, Deepest sympathy to you as you come to terms with the tragic loss of Benji.
Isa 30:15b … in quietness and confidence IS your strength.
Love and prayer
Liz Bruce, Richard and Andrew

Kate Jack

I was on the same floor of Weir House with Benji in 2018. I was really shy, really unsure of myself, and really didn’t fit in. Benji evidently noticed this early on, and went so far out of his way to be kind—all year, we talked about art and gardening over tea mornings every so often & had a pot-plant-or-letter-on-a-vintage-postcard-left-outside-the-door exchange going on. Simple moments of connection that he started up of his own accord, just to be kind. I can’t stress enough how much it meant to me at the time and still does. I think about Benji often when I think about that time in my life & when I see certain kinds of NZ inspired art and imagery. What a wonderful & deeply gorgeous human, an electric creative and community spirit. Kindness and perception like no other. I’m crushed for those who knew him closely. How special to have known his briefly. Sending massive love to the whaanau and will keep Benji in a little piece of my heart always. Aroha nui x

Fiona Solomon

Dear Olivia, Jane and Michael. Our family are so sad to hear of the passing of your dear son and brother. My children Jared and Mia Solomon knew Benji via Olivia and sports and have very fond memories of him being the loveliest person. We are thinking of you all and sending you lots of love.

John Davidson

I didn’t know Benjamin and only met Michael towards the end of last year in connection with Anglican Missions. He was extremely friendly and helpful to me. Another person told me later, when I mentioned to this person that I’d met Michael, that I should pray for him because he and his family were going through a very hard time. I had no idea what the issue was. All became clear to me when I read Benjamin’s death notice in the Post this morning (Thursday 29 January 2026).
I would like to offer my deepest sympathy to Michael, and also to Jane and Olivia.
May he rest in peace.

David Watt

Dear Michael and family,

I want to convey my heartfelt thoughts for you all on the tragic loss of Benji. I remember Michael some great years working with you at the Wellington City Council when I was an elected representative with your deep passion and advice on heritage matters, which were an inspiration for my later work, and continuing with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. It has been great to stop and talk with you in the street during your time on Aid agency work, with my extensive number of years in Rotary and our focus on humanitarian projects.

We look forward to seeing you soon when you come to speak to our Rotary Club of Wellington North in February.
Meantime, my love and respect for you all as you go through this very hard time as a family.
Sincerely
David.

Helena and Rona of Bowen Galleries

Dear Jane, Michael, and Olivia.

Benji was a much loved part of the wider Bowen community. A thoughtful and kind man, we all really appreciated his deep conversation and artistic outlook. His great support for other artists did not go unnoticed. Our thoughts go out to you three, and to Benji.
Aroha nui,
Bowen Galleries

Alex Czerwonka

Dear Michael, Jane and family of Benji,
How sad you must feel as the reality of Benji’s death sets in. He, and all of you have lost the horizons of a brighter future with him in it. You will have memories of happy times together, and the legacy of his artwork and other things done well. May these give some comfort. Inevitably, there will be regrets, at times you may wonder … if something had happened differently, or if words had been said, or not said, these could have changed what happened. For my own regrets, I trust that somehow when God brings all things to completion, whatever was lacking in me, and anyone else, will be graciously fulfilled. As you journey on in sadness, take Benji and all his originality and uniqueness with you. May God bring you comfort through your family and friends. Alex & Jocelyn Czerwonka

Fergus Wilkes

Dear Jane, Michael and Olivia and all of Benji’s loved ones,

Benji was a beautiful soul who we were blessed to share his presence with us. I only had the pleasure of knowing him since we were at Weir House, but he touched all of our hearts while we knew him. We will dearly miss him while remembering his kindness and love to everyone.
Our prayers are with you during this time, and we pray that you have strength, courage, and hope to guide you through this difficult time.
Sending love,
Fergus

Andrew Kelly

Dear Benji,

Thank you for inspiring me with your kind words and supporting me on my musical journey even when I was on the other side of the world in London.
As a fellow artist and spiritual person I saw in you a special ability to understand the world and others around you as well as being so bold and unashamedly yourself in your art.
I always looked forward to seeing you when I was back in Wellington to get a fresh dose of perspective; Whether it be through listening to a new record or just reminiscing about the old Scots times you were a joy to be around.
You were a true inspiration to me and one of the most talented and open minded artists I’ve been lucky to meet. Thank you for making such a positive impact to the world.
Rest in peace brother.
Love, Andrew

Rachel Dawick

Dearest Mike, Jane and Olivia,

It is at times like these that you feel so far away and wish that you could be there, in person to help support and pay homage to your beautiful son, Benji. Dad and I are heartbroken at the news and to know how impossible this time must feel for you all. Love knows no boundaries and there is much love around you on this day to celebrate Benji’s light and for years to come. I have many wonderful memories from when Benji first arrived to the many times spent at your wonderful place and always made to feel part of your dear family. There is nothing that can make sense but as we move through this strange world it is the love that binds us all which surrounds us always. It will be good to see you in NZ again and to spend time with you all. Much love Rachel and John (Dad).

Leonard Chan

Dear Mike and Jane
I write this note with a heavy heart knowing that you, your whanau, and friends will be in deep grieve. My words can only offer light relief but I wanted to convey my condolences and say that my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. May memories of Benji provide solace and may he rest in peace.
Sincere sympathies
Leonard

Max Vanger

Benji and I met at Weir House, where he lit up every room he entered. He made every single person he met feel beyond special.
We would go for walks around Kelburn and through the Botanic Gardens in the middle of the night, talking for hours about who we wanted to be.
Every month at Weir House, Benji hosted a themed party that brought everyone together, whether we knew each other or not. There were typewritten invitations, and you had to prepare a party piece! Everyone would come away with party favours or handwritten notes from Benji.
Our entire group of friends at Weir adored art and art history – Benji lived art. After I left Wellington he continued to write to me and came to visit. I still have folders full of his letters, and even now my bedroom is decorated with gifts and ephemera gifted to me by Benji.
I’ll always remember Benji in one of his vintage suits, with handpicked flowers pinned to the lapel. He was so beautiful. I miss you Benji.

Catherine Cartysquires

I first met Benji when I was coaching Olivia and my daughters Eilishrose and Niamh for their IBU Football team. I was on crutches unable to stand on two legs and Olivia said her brother would be happy to be my demonstrator for all coaching sessions. I said yes please and so I met Benji and his friend. The girls loved them. Benji was the team heartthrob and everyone looked forward to coaching sessions.
I told the boys what we were working on each week and it was put in play
I joined Saint Hildas after attending Michael’s ordination and have enjoyed Benjis company as he came and he helped me restore it’s beauty from someone else’s garden vandalism.
I enjoyed his calm, peace, gentleness and enjoyment in helping. I enjoyed watching his love for his womenfolk, Olivia and Jane A gentle giant, I will miss seeing at church.
My thoughts and prayers, arohanui will be with you,
Catherine Cartysquires

Imogen Macalister

Benji moved through the world making every part he inhabited a better place. At Weir House he typed invitations signed at the bottom to invite us to events to honour various musicians, Bob Dylan, David Bowie, ABBA. We would get dressed up and listen to the songs in his room, spilling out into the hall and adjacent room. He took beautiful photos and did things for others without asking, seeing special parts of the world and others often overlooked and tending to them with care; giving me a leaf because it smelt nice. I kept these momentos, the leaf, the notes, the invitations, in a diary with an accompanied entry from every day of Weir House and 2018. I look forward to viewing these when I am next at home in Wellington. He saw the world as meaningful as it is and as meaningful as it should be seen. He is an incredible artist, and an incredible person. I am deeply sorry to hear of his passing.

Pat Vincent

Dear Michael & Family

It was with great sadness that I received the news of Benji’s passing. On behalf of the Wellington Diocese Association of Anglican Women I would like to extend our deepest condolences on your loss. Words cannot express the sorrow I feel for you and your family in loosing a much loved son and brother.
Blessings
Pat Vincent

Tanawin Verapong

Dear Olivia, Jane, and Michael,

I am so sorry for your loss.
Benji was an incredibly radiant and beautiful person. He was the one who gave me a tour of Scots College when I first joined in the middle of Year 10.
At that time, I was a lonely and detached international student, and I was truly grateful that Benji reached out to me. His kindness and passion were truly inspirational, and they made me feel welcomed and supported when I needed it most.
I miss Benji, and I wish we had the chance to talk again. Benji will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am deeply grateful for having known him. He will always be remembered for his kindness and warmth.
With deepest sympathy,
Tan

Andrew Tang

Dear Jane, Michael and family

When I first arrived at Scots, I barely knew anyone and felt quite alone. Benji was there for me and we became friends – and I know he was that same presence to so many others who were struggling. I will never forget how he made me feel. Thank you for raising such a beautiful and kind person who brought so much joy to the world in his 26 years here.
Sending love,
Andrew

Kate Day

“Sending our love and prayers.”

Kate (and John-Luke) Day

Gill Burdett

Dear Jane, Michael and Olivia,

Just making contact at this time of your sudden, devastating loss of a beloved son and brother. Although I didn’t know Benji, from what you’ve said about his life, he was a loving and caring person, particularly sensitive to the needs of others, and had a strong sense of social justice. What a great job you did as parents and family!
I join you in prayer for peace – for Benji and yourselves and all who’s lives he touched.
With love,
Gill

Brian Nelson

I was devastated to hear of Benji’s passing. I was his graphics teacher at Scots College. He was my favorite student. Friendly, talented, eccentric and with the kindest of hearts. I’m the teacher who showed him how to develop black and white film. We both got into trouble for our unauthorized conversion of a restroom to a temporary darkroom. I have retired from teaching, but was often back at school last year on temporary assignments and saw him many times in the gardens and the art room.
I have lost two brothers in similar circumstances. One was an artist as well.
Like them, Benji will be forever in my heart.

Edmund Liu

Dear Jane, Michael and Olivia,
I am so sorry to hear of Benji’s passing. I am still in shock as I write this to you. Benji and I had an appointment just one day before he passed, and we spent quite a long time talking during his treatment. He expressed his curiosity about acupuncture and shared the story of his struggles with his health. He was a humble, kind, and deep young man, and after watching the recording of the service (I wish I had known it earlier and I could have been there), I realised the qualities I saw in him were also deeply valued by others. In our conversation, we spoke about cultures, religions, visions and plans for the future; he was incredibly knowledgeable. I didn’t have the privilege to see more aspects of his beautiful soul, but I believe he will be remembered by anyone who knew him, even briefly. His bright and honest spirit shines through. Thank you for bringing up such a wonderful man. My heart and prayers are with you through this difficult time.
Edmund