18/05/2026
RIP WAYNE HUNTER, Upper Hutt Rifle Club.
It is with sadness that I report the recent passing of Wayne Hunter, a member of the Upper Hutt Rifle Club during the 1970’s and 1980’s. Wayne passed away in Hutt Hospital on Tuesday, 12th May 2026 after bravely battling an illness over many weeks.
Wayne was one of three children, triplets, whose parents, Bob and Audrey Hunter, were fully involved in the Upper Hutt Rifle Club. Father Bob was a former President, Wayne and brother Kevin were very active members, as was sister Karen’s husband, Ian Boatwood. Kevin’s father in law, Ian McGregor, was also a member for several years. Both generations of the wider Hunter Family contributed greatly to the running and to the social culture of the Club during these decades.
Wayne was a builder by trade, and his skills and leadership were invaluable when the Upper Hutt Rifle Club decided to extend the Clubrooms following the 1979 Palma Match at Trentham. With 500 competitors, it was clearly evident that the existing Clubroom was no longer capable of providing hospitality to such a large number, so Wayne set about doubling the building’s footprint. This was a large undertaking but with Wayne’s expertise and enthusiasm, the project was completed over the winter months of 1979. The Club is hugely indebted to Wayne for his contribution to the growth of the Club, materially and numerically. With such an attractive “ home,” the Club thrived during the latter part of the 20th Century.
Wayne never lost interest in the sport of rifle shooting, nor in the Upper Hutt Rifle Club, in latter years becoming the Trentham Rifle Club. Almost every year, Wayne, together with his very good friend and former Club member Paul Archibald, would be at Trentham during the shooting of the Queens / Kings Final. It was a pleasure to have a beer with him on the deck of the Clubrooms following the completion of this year’s Final.
By nature, Wayne was a real character. He had a wicked sense of humour and an infectious laugh. He worked hard and played hard. He was always fun to be around. He will be missed greatly, our sincerest condolences go to Trish and family.
RIP Wayne.
John Whiteman
Trentham Rifle Club.
