Tauranga's Rich List!

At least three of the country's richest men are living in Tauranga - a major car dealer, the co-founder of an Australasian clothing chain and a large-scale property investor.

The National Business Review's 2015 Rich List was released yesterday and the major contributors remained largely unchanged from 2014.

Sir Colin Giltrap, of The Giltrap Group, added a cool $30 million to his estimated wealth in the past year, now estimated to be worth $360 million.

Sir Colin often lives in London but when he is in new Zealand: "he reportedly hides out in one of multiple luxurious addresses throughout New Zealand including a $5.5 million apartment in Eleven tower in Mt Maunganui," NBR reported.

"Sir Colin is well known as a motorsport enthusiast and sponsors various teams including one competing in the A1GP series and for the Porsche Supercup in years past."

The car dealer built his brand over 40 years and now owns seven retail dealerships - representing 14 different brands.

Peter Gillespie, one of two brothers who founded Ezibuy, has retired in Mount Maunganui with his wife and made yesterday's list for another year. The brothers have a joint estimated wealth of $210 million.

"The brothers had spent more than three decades building their small Palmerston North-based mail-order business into what is now one of Australasia's biggest multi-channel retailers," NBR reported.

The brothers sold Ezibuy to Australian supermarket giant Woolworths last year for $350 million.

Peter Gillespie, left, who has retired in Mount Maunganui, is estimated to have a joint wealth of $210 million shared with his brother.

They also have interests in a new motel and shopping complex in Tauranga.

Peter Gillespie and his wife live in a $2.8 million apartment overlooking the harbour.

Tauranga property developer and philanthropist Paul Adams also made the list with his estimated wealth of $125 million.

While Mr Adams prefers to keep out of the spotlight, the Carrus Corporation founder is extensively involved in local projects.

"At 66, he says about 70 per cent of his working hours are now spent on various not-for-profit ventures and he reckons helping others is 'critical' to a healthy society," NBR reported.

Tauranga-based property developer and philanthropist Paul Adams (above) is estimated to be worth $125 million.

Mr Adams was born in Wellington and raised in a state house.

Earlier this year he was made a companion of the NZ Order of Merit in the New Year honours.

Also worth a mention

•Adrian Burr - estimated to be worth $380 million. Built his fortune on property and owns 47 properties in Mount Maunganui through Quay Lease.
•Mark Wyborn - estimated to be worth $335 million. Owns a third share of about 47 titles to commercial and industrial land in Mount Maunganui through Quay Lease.
•Noel Holyoake - estimated to be worth $120 million. Owns the largest manufacturer of air distribution equipment in the Asia Pacific region and has interests in the Tauranga-based Coastline Marine.

Source: Bay of Plenty Times