Ryman co-founder Kevin Hickman dies

Sunday, 25 August 2024

Kevin Hickman, co-founder of Aotearoa’s largest retirement village operator and an influential figure in the racing industry, died on Friday.

Based in Christchurch, the 74-year-old former detective-turned-rich-lister was known for co-founding Ryman Healthcare in 1984, with a kaupapa that it had to be good for his own mum.

He was involved in the company for 34 years, during which it was listed on the stock exchange and became the largest retirement village operator in New Zealand.

Former Ryman chief executive Simon Challies said Hickman was a man who wanted to be respected more than liked, “[But he] achieved both because he was a very personable guy.”

Challies vividly recalled the day in 2006 when he succeeded Hickman in the executive chair. His predecessor emptied his office entirely and left a single post-it note on the desk for Challies to find: “It’s all yours, don’t cock it up.”

Hickman took risks on people, Challies said, giving them opportunity and self-belief to achieve.

“He was an incredible hard worker and he was incredibly well-researched. He would study topics, whether it was racing or retirement villages…more than anyone else.”

Ryman Healthcare facilities currently home more than 14,000 residents across New Zealand and Australia, according to the company website.

Hickman was also known for his work in the thoroughbred industry as a sponsor, breeder and owner.

He was made an Officer of the Order of Merit in 2016 for his services to charities, including the Christchurch Medical Research Fund and the Champion Centre for young children with disabilities.​