Anthony Arthur

ANTHONY J N ARTHUR

Tony died at home on May 12th 2024, aged 92. He led a fulfilling, varied and long life, with loving wife Kristin, children Alasdair, Penelope and William, and grandchildren Holly and Jake. Painter, sculptor, an Oxford man and lover of rare cars and rare books, Tony was most of all a compassionate and kind person, always interested in life and in others, and the consummate host. He grew up in England but later returned to his birthplace of New Zealand; here he became deeply involved in the Wellington art scene, especially the NZ Academy of Fine Arts, Inverlochy Art School and the Printing Museum. Tony kept his sense of fun and humour, his passionate and wide interests, and his remarkable talent for sketching right to the end. A service will be held on Monday 20^th May, 10am at Old St Paul’s, with refreshments afterwards at the Wellington Club. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to Inverlochy Art School (38-9005-0858533-00). Messages to the Arthur family may be posted ℅ Lychgate, 306 Willis Street, Aro Valley, Wellington.

TRIBUTES

Julie Hanna

We have lots of wonderful memories of Tony, such as him pranging the Porsche in our driveway, the mad sculptures he made and an early edition Chaucer as a wedding present. We will miss his dry wit, his poker face ( I never knew if he was joking or not! ), his gentle kindness and his heavy hand with a drink!
RIP, Tony.
Sending all our thoughts and condolences to the Arthur family today.
With much love from the Hanna’s.

Mara Bryan

Dearest Tony
I loved you like a father, and my son Hassan loved you like a grandfather.
We were both so very lucky to know you as we did.

Michael Curry

As the Archivist of The Wellington Branch of Vintage Car Club I found photos of the 1934 Aston Martin that meant a lot to Tony during the time of his ownership. And it was a great joy to see it being used.
We also crossed paths at The Printing Museum that was another of his interests.
A true gentleman of the highest order.

David Hoskin

Condolences to Kristin and all the family. Tony was a very kind, warm person. I have great memories of time spent in his study surrounded by his books and art as he and Kristin so generously allowed me to play their piano. I must have spent days in that room, which, surronded by all that culture, was the perfect place to make music.
Thank you for the wonderful service, so beautifully led by Jake, which I watched late at night from Denmark. The words spoken by all were a perfect tribute.

Peter Shirtcliffe

The wonderful service of farewell for Tony at Old St. Paul’s said it all. We have lost the immediate company of a gentleman in the full sense of the word, and someone who was just naturally fun to be with. Geniality, combined with his natural charm, humour, talents and kindness were his hallmarks, and he will be long remembered for his unique personality.
A tribute too, to the devoted care Kristin has displayed over such a long period of time.

Debbie Littlefair

Anthony was the perfect host when my friend, Jo and I, stayed with him and Kristen many years ago. His model person made from an old typewriter, his story of driving his Porche from the factory to New Zealand, to be the first on the island, and his gentle, kind, caring nature will remain in my mind forever. Thank you for being a true gentleman, a generous host, and a lovely man xxx

Bill Tramposch

Dear Kristin, Jake, and family, Thank you for enabling us to feel transported from California to the pews of Old St. Paul’s yesterday. Jake, you did an eloquent job officiating and, Kristin, your comments brought tears of sadness, but mostly delight. Both of you commented on how Tony was always ‘thankful’ for small deeds, like your providing him with medications and daily activities in those last months. His thankfulness was so defining, so inspiring; he always gave us the sense that ‘we’ were the ones that added value to his day, when—of course—it was just the opposite. What a privilege to know and love you, and in such light how little the Pacific’s distance matters. We, too, were seated among you yesterday; and you two (as well as the whole family) are in our thoughts. Thanks again for enabling us to join you in the warmth of that lovely church!

Tracy Jones Jones

Listened to every word, moment of this amazing send off service for dear Tony.
Was special to hear William’s music again.
Have always held Tony and you Chris with so much respect and noticed your dedicated loving relationship from when I was a little girl.
Sadly didn’t have your no. and handn’ t rung Mum to get it! As I did attempt finding you both 7 months ago – at apartments on marina area. Love to you all. Always special and admiring memories.

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