Dame Jools Topp, of Kiwi music icons Topp Twins dies
Monday, 25 May 2026
One half of the Topp Twins duo, Dame Jools Topp, has died peacefully at her home.
She died on Saturday surrounded by her twin sister Lynda, brother Bruce, and her close friends and pets.
Hailing from Rotowaro in North Waikato, the Topp Twins were regulars on New Zealand television and stages throughout their career with an eclectic assortment of quintessential kiwi characters drawing on their own rural childhood and backed with their natural musical talent.
Her family expressed their grief in a statement.
“It is with deep sorrow and unimaginable grief we announce the passing of Jools, our beloved sister and daughter. Today we have lost a true warrior woman. Jools was wise, courageous, generous, inspiring and funny. We will miss her forever”.
The family said Jools lived bravely with breast cancer for 22 years, and it had been important to her that it not be described as a “battle” or a “fight”.
“Now she is finally free to ride on Pegasus, her winged horse, and round up sheep again with our dad Peter and all her precious dogs.”
As one-half of New Zealand’s celebrated double-act, Jools Topp entertained domestic and international audiences alongside her sister for more than 40 years as well as contributing to political and social causes.
Her work spans the Topp Twins’ music, books, TV shows, and film.
“A mighty totara of the NZ arts world has fallen today,” Topp Twins manager Arani Cuthbert said in a statement.
“What an immense privilege it’s been to be the Topp Twins manager and close friend for 34 years and witness the love and joy that Jools and Lynda have spread into every corner of Aotearoa, as well as overseas. It is unimaginable that Camp Leader, Ken Smythe, Raelene and Prue will no longer appear on our stages and screens.”
“Jools’ unique brand of comedy, her signature spontaneity and beautiful songs connected with people from all walks of life.”
On Friday night at the Country Music Honours ceremony in Gore The Topp Twins were recognised with an award which celebrated members of the country music community.
In a joint statement Country Music Honours, MLT NZ Gold Guitar Awards and the Tussock Country Music Festival said it was a privilege to acknowledge Dame Jools.
“Jools has always been a huge part of the Gold Guitar Awards in particular, and her presence, humour, generosity and talent will be profoundly missed by our country music community and by all who knew and loved her.“
The award was for those who have not only achieved great heights of their own but uplifted others and contributed to country music in New Zealand.
A video tribute, with comments from performers including Tami Neilson, Anika Moa, Barry Saunders, the Bristow sisters and former Prime Minister Helen Clark paid tribute to their musical prowess and the joy they had brought to audiences in every nook and cranny of Aotearoa.
The Mitchell Twins performed The Topp Twins’ songs Milestones and Untouchable Girls in a tribute.
The Topp family extended their thanks to the palliative care team at West Auckland Hospice.
They have requested privacy and will announce a celebration to honour Jools’ life shortly.