Les Mills Snr, the New Zealand athlete who founded a global fitness dynasty, died peacefully on June 29, 2026, at the age of 91. His passing was announced by the company he founded, Les Mills International, in a statement released from Auckland.
Olympic Career and Early Life
Born in Auckland on November 1, 1934, Mills lost his father at age 11 and turned to fitness for solace, inspired by the Charles Atlas strength training program. He became a fearsome athlete, representing New Zealand at four Olympic Games in discus and shot put. He won Commonwealth Games gold, three silver medals, and one bronze. After his competitive career, he became an elite international coach and sports administrator.
Building a Fitness Empire
In 1968, at age 19, Mills married Colleen, a world-class track and field athlete. Together they launched the first Les Mills gym in Auckland. The business grew into the Les Mills New Zealand chain, a cornerstone of Kiwi culture. Later, their son Phillip and his partner Jackie created Les Mills International, taking group workouts global with programs like BODYPUMP.
Political Career and Honors
Mills served three terms as Mayor of Auckland City in the 1990s, leading reforms to strengthen communities, improve infrastructure, and regenerate the waterfront. He was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire in 1973 for services to sport, and a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2002 for services to local government and sport. In 2022, he was inducted into the New Zealand Business Hall of Fame alongside Phillip and Jackie Mills.
Legacy and Family
Phillip Mills, Managing Director of Les Mills International, said: 'He achieved a huge amount in his life. And the common thread throughout – whether in fitness, politics or family life – was that he always wanted to help others. Dad was immensely strong, driven, and always cared deeply for the less advantaged. He left a lasting impression on everyone he met, and his spirit lives on in gym workouts around the world, continuing to help people fall in love with fitness.'
Mills is survived by his children Phillip and Donna, daughter-in-law Jackie, grandchildren Diana, Les Jr, Gabriel, and Moana, and many great-grandchildren. His wife Colleen predeceased him in 2005.
