New Zealand entrepreneur Sir Michael Hill celebrates 10th anniversary of the Michael Hill International Violin Competition

Following his recent acceptance of a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, Sir Michael Hill, international businessman and philanthropist, founder and chairman of the global jewellery chain Michael Hill International, is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Michael Hill International Violin Competition which begins today.

Sir Michael Hill is a founding trustee and following his passion for the arts and love of the violin established the biennial competition in 2001.

Open to 18-28 year olds the competition attracts world class violinists to serve as judges and receives applications from up to 30 countries around the world. The prestigious competition aims to promote young emerging violinists who are launching professional solo careers , as well as to recognise and encourage excellence and musical artistry.

The winning violinist will receive $40,000 (NZ), a CD recording contract and a tour with Chamber Music NZ in 2012. As well as his generous contribution to the arts Sir Michael Hill’s global business achievements are legendary in New Zealand.

Currently operating 239 stores, with 54 in New Zealand, 145 in Australia, 31 in Canada and 9 stores in the USA, his current goal is to open more than 1000 stores globally by 2022. The Michael Hill jewellery business entered the North American market in 2002 opening up the first store in Vancouver, Canada.

There are now 31 Michael Hill jewellery stores across four Canadian provinces including British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario and Alberta. In 2008 Michael Hill entered the US and the 9 stores are located in the Greater Chicago area. Sir Michael Hill has a strong business vision for the North American market in particular, with plans for expansion in the region.

For over 30 years Michael Hill stores have been recognised as a key destination for quality, affordable diamond and engagement rings in Australia and New Zealand, the brand offers a similar entry point to fine jewellery in the North American market. Spurred into starting his own business in the 1970’s following the loss of his family home to a fire, Sir Michael Hill’s ultimate aim was to make fine jewellery more accessible to people. Originally from a family of jewellery makers, he opened his very first store in Whangerei, New Zealand in 1979.

Also a keen golfer, he has opened his private golf course in Queenstown to host the New Zealand Golf Open three times and he is a major donor to Cure Kids charity, helping to fund medical research for incurable diseases.

Sir Michael Hill will continue to promote both his philanthropic and business pursuits, and hopes his recent knighthood will serve to further promote his activities to the wider international community.