Ralph Thomas Adams

ADAMS, Ralph Thomas (MBE):

On Monday, July 20, 2026, at Stillwater Lifecare and Village, Richmond, aged 90 years. At peace with the Lord, an inspiration to many.

Former Director of the New Zealand Wildlife Service.

MBE for services to the New Zealand Wildlife and management of endangered species.

Dearly loved husband of the late Shirley, and the late Winifred.

Loved father of Brett, Dean (Dec), Carey, Mark, and Gloriann; and families.

Loved Stepfather of Carolyn, Bryan, Stephen,

Loved Grandad, Great-Grandad and Great-Great Grandad.

Son of the late Reginald and Minnie Adams New Plymouth.

Brother to the late Charles and Bruce, loved brother of Rosalie and Dawn.

A legendary New Zealander, who inspired many and devoted his life to his Lord, this country’s unique flora and fauna, the promotion and preservation of sport shooting and fishing across our land and of course his much cherished extended family.

Special thanks to the beautiful staff at Stillwater life care.

A great tree has fallen.

Messages may be sent to the Adams family at careyadams2011@gmail.com or 34 Templemore Drive, Richmond 7020

Please note: change in venue – The celebration of Ralph’s life will now be held at 2.15pm, Tuesday 28th July at the Church of the Nativity, 76 Alfred Street, Blenheim. This celebration will be livestreamed – The link can be found below this notice.

Tribute from Alister Bull – 
I am very sorry to hear of Ralph’s death. He was a special person, who when in his 20’s became a good friend of my Father, often staying with us in Temuka on his many expeditions to Fiordland and other parts south.
We went on a number of Chukor shooting trips with Ralph in the 1960’s. He shared a love for gundogs, trout fishing and preservation of the environment. Later he like me became a pigeon fancier.
I stayed with your family in Upper Hutt for a couple of months in 1968. Ralph and Shirley were so kind to me.
Ralph was an open honest, caring kind man, with a keen sense of humour. He was very adaptable with the highest levels of integrity, and sincerity. He made a big impression on me, and was a close friend of the Bull Family.
Condolences to you all. Thinking of you as I often thought about Ralph