Remembering Wayne Wright ONZM

Koi Tū acknowledges the passing of Wayne Wright ONZM, a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist whose support has had a meaningful impact on our work and on New Zealand.

Wayne, together with his late wife Chloe Wright, built a legacy grounded in improving outcomes for children, families, and communities. Through the Wright Family Foundation, their philanthropy has supported education, social development, and community wellbeing across the country. Koi Tū has been fortunate to be part of that legacy.

Koi Tū Director Sir Peter Gluckman says Wayne strongly believed in the power of research and evidence to support better futures. His support for our social cohesion programmes enabled us to deepen understanding of the pressures affecting cohesion and to advance work that strengthens trust in a rapidly changing society.

Following Chloe’s passing in 2023, Koi Tū was honoured to establish the Chloe Wright Policy Unit in her memory, reflecting Wayne and Chloe’s shared commitment to policies to improve the wellbeing of children and families.

“Wayne and Chloe were remarkable in their determination to improve outcomes for children and families. They understood that evidence and action must go hand in hand, and his support helped us pursue work that matters for New Zealand’s future. We are grateful for Wayne’s trust and for the legacy he and Chloe leave behind,” Sir Peter said.

We extend our sincere condolences to the Wright whānau. Wayne’s generosity and belief in making a positive difference will continue to shape our work, and his legacy will live on through the many lives touched by the Wright Family Foundation.

Photo: Koi Tū Deputy Director Hema Sridhar and Chief Operating Officer Jill Rolston with Wayne Wright at the annual Cuppa for Chloe event in Tauranga in December 2025.