Obituary - Francis Gerald (Hank) Murney

Plastics New Zealand is saddened to inform you of the passing of long-term Industry Member and founder of RX Plastics, Hank Murney. Hank passed away on Monday May 25, 2026, after a long battle with illness, aged 78.

Hank’s contribution to RX Plastics and the wider industry is significant. In 1975, he and wife Kate began RX Plastics in a small tin shed in Ashburton, manufacturing bag ties with just the two of them as employees. Through hard work, reinvestment, innovation, and a deep passion for what they were building, they steadily grew the business into something much greater.

Over time, RX Plastics expanded well beyond its humble beginnings - into extrusion pipe, plant pots, tanks, PVC products and irrigation systems - becoming a recognised leader in rural water management.

By 2008, when the Murney family sold the business to Aliaxis, RX Plastics had grown to include sites in Tinwald and Horotiu and had established a strong reputation for expertise and reliability. Hank was known not only for his entrepreneurial spirit, but also for his character - someone who worked hard, valued relationships, and enjoyed a good laugh. He built many lasting friendships across the business, and his legacy continues to be felt today.

In 2017 the family gifted money to the Ashburton Museum & Historical Society Inc., a room has been named within the Ashburton Museum after them.

Our sincere condolences to his wife Kate, his children and their families, and his numerous friends and colleagues.

Messages to the Murney family, c/ PO Box 431, Ashburton 7740. The family wish to acknowledge the love, care and support extended to Hank and his family by all the staff at Elizabeth Street Day Centre, Radius Hawthorne Christchurch, and Radius Millstream Ashburton.

A celebration of Hanks life will be held at the Hotel Ashburton, Racecourse Road on Sunday May 31st commencing at 1.30pm.  Followed by a private committal on Monday.