TVNZ presenter Greg Boyed has died while on holiday in Switzerland with his wife and youngest child. The network released a statement this morning from Head of News and Current Affairs John Gillespie.
“It is with a heavy heart we’ve learned our friend and colleague Greg Boyed has died. This news has come as a huge shock to his TVNZ family. Greg was a prominent figure in our newsroom for the last 25 years. He was a wonderful man and a talented broadcaster who strongly believed in the power and importance of journalism in people’s lives.”
“Greg was known for his wit and warmth and kindness. It’s a very personal loss for us. It’s a lot to take in. Greg will be greatly missed by us, he will be missed by our colleagues in the wider industry and he’ll be missed by our viewers. Our thoughts are with Greg’s whanau and friends.”
Greg, 48, was previously engaged to fellow news presenter Amanda Gillies. He married Swiss pop singer Caroline Chevin in 2014. They have a son, Kian Iraia Cassidy, who was born in August 2015. Greg also has a daughter in her early 20’s from a previous relationship.
His family released the following statement:
“It is with great sadness that we share news of the sudden death of broadcaster Greg Boyed on Monday, 20 August, whilst in Switzerland with his wife and youngest child. He was absolutely loved and adored. A treasured son, brother, husband and father, he will be deeply missed.”
“Greg was a talented journalist, presenter, musician and an exceptional friend to those lucky enough to know him. Greg had been battling depression.”
“Greg was the kindest and most caring man, a devoted father who cherished and loved his two children. We are all struggling to comes to terms with this.”
Greg was one of a number of famous New Zealanders to lend his name to support the Mental Health Foundation’s Step Forward campaign in 2015, aimed at stopping mental illness discrimination in New Zealand.
There has been an outpouring of grief on social media. Greg’s former colleague Daniel Faitaua struggled through an on-air tribute to the broadcaster today, his voice audibly breaking at times.
Where to get help
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 to talk to a trained Depression Helpline counsellor for free. For other mental health issues, call Lifeline on 0800 543 354, the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 TAUTOKO or Youthline on 0800 376 633.