Leaving a gift or bequest in your Will is a big decision. It invites reflection: What do I value most? What will future generations need? What would I love to help thrive?

For Richard Tait, the answers come with clarity — and his trademark dry humour. “I’ve always said I’m worth more dead than alive,” he grins. “But seriously, I’ve had a good life. And now it’s time to pass something on that will outlive me.”

That “something” is a scholarship through Taranaki Foundation, created to support Rainbow youth who are passionate about science and determined to turn that passion into a career. It’s designed for young people with talent, curiosity and drive — those who might not always have financial backing but certainly have the heart and brains for it.

“It’s for the dreamers, the thinkers, the ones quietly working away with big plans,” Richard explains.

A Career Built on Purpose and Connection

Richard knows a thing or two about carving your own path. His four-decade career in hospitality began in 1983 as a chef apprentice in New Zealand before taking him to London, where he managed restaurants for 15 years. Returning home, he went on to oversee stadium catering operations in Christchurch and Wellington — including during the Rugby World Cup — and later taught at the Hospitality School in Rarotonga.

For the past 16 years, Richard’s career has been closely tied to Taranaki. From his early days with Hell Pizza, to Rugby World Cup operations, and now overseeing Centre City as Property Manager for the building’s owner, these roles have deepened his connection to the region and its people — making Taranaki the natural home for his legacy.

Alongside his career, Richard has been a strong voice for inclusion. He served as co-chair of the Wellington International Pride Parade, helping to lead the 2020 event that brought together more than 50,000 people.

Giving with Intention

Now 60, Richard has taken the time to reflect on what matters most. Without dependants to provide for, he has the rare freedom to shape a legacy that will benefit future generations. His decision: to leave 40% of his estate as a bequest to Taranaki Foundation to fund this scholarship.

“Knowing it will be invested and grown into an ongoing source of funding for the things I care most about makes it a more attractive option than leaving a one-off gift,” he says. Working with Taranaki Foundation made the process straightforward and meaningful. “I didn’t want to set up a whole trust or deal with red tape,” Richard explains. “The Foundation helped shape something simple and sustainable, and made it easy to align with what I care about.”

Because the scholarship will sit within Taranaki Foundation’s endowment, Richard’s gift will be invested and grown — providing support for deserving students every year, forever. “There’s real peace of mind knowing the values I hold — inclusion, education, opportunity — will continue to be supported well into the future.”

 A Living Legacy

Richard’s gift is more than financial support. It reflects his story, his pride, his connection to Taranaki, and his deep belief in backing people to be exactly who they are — and to go far.