By lisaha01

Copyright engineeringnews

The New Zealand business community is mourning the loss of Simon John Lucas, founder of Lucas Machinery, who passed away on September 5, 2025. Born on December 3, 1952, Simon devoted his professional life to shaping one of the country’s most recognised names in industrial machinery.

In 1980, Simon and his wife Catherine established Lucas Machinery from modest beginnings in East Tamaki, Auckland. What began as a small operation quickly grew under Simon’s steady hand into a trusted hub for both new and used machinery. For nearly half a century, the Lucas name has stood for reliability, knowledge, and service – values Simon held at the core of his business philosophy.

Colleagues and competitors alike respected Simon not only for his deep technical knowledge but also for his integrity and willingness to share insight. He understood that machinery was never just about gears and steel; it was about people, their livelihoods, and ensuring workshops across New Zealand had the right tools to thrive. His reputation as a straight-talking, dependable figure earned him the loyalty of generations of customers.

Beyond the boardroom and workshop, Simon was first and foremost a family man. He and Catherine shared 48 years of marriage, raising a family together while balancing the demands of a growing enterprise. He was a beloved husband, father, and “Poppy” to his grandchildren, remembered for his warmth, humour, and grounded wisdom.

Though his passing marks the end of an era, Lucas Machinery will continue operations under the guidance of long-time colleague and friend Cliff Purser, ensuring Simon’s legacy lives on in the business he built.

He leaves behind not just a company, but a standard of professionalism and trust that will endure.

He will be deeply missed by all.