I just recently learned of Michael's passing and I was deeply sadned. I first met Michael in Rotorua as a young 20 year old starting on reception soon after moving into a Tenancy Manager role, after a year or so Michael approached me about taking on the Taupo Turangi Murupara and rural areas I was nervous but he believed in me and gave me the confidence to embrace this new role. I will always remember the many team-building fun memories learnings over the years you where always respected and a empowering inspiring leader with an infectous laugh who spoke often with such love and proudness od Anne and ur gals. I remember also when you were excited to take Anne to see Dame Kiri Te Kanawa in Rotorua and u parked on my front lawn as there was no parking and how greatfull u were and gave a thankyou card and chocolates. Ka aroha hoki love and strength to Anne Michelle Emma Katie and Grandchildren. May you rest peaceful Michael in the garden of paradise. Carla Halidone 🙏

1. November 2024 We had the opportunity to meet Michael and Anne years ago in Orewa, as Katie and Lars became friends. About 2 years later Katie and Lars got married in Rarotonga and today they have 3 lovely off springs. Michael and Anne we enjoyed there company at some social occasions and have very fond memories of Michael and the Thomson family. Michael will be very much missed by all of us. Our deepest condolences to Anne and the Family, Martin and Anne Wahlmann

I had the pleasure of working with Michael at the (then) DHB. He had a cheeky sense of humour and a true talent for storytelling. Michael had a remarkable ability to engage in conversation on a wide range of topics, showcasing his endless curiosity and passion for learning. No matter the circumstances, he always wore a smile, whether you were coming to relieve him or joining him for a shift. His pride in his family shone through in every story he shared—he loved them deeply. A true gentleman, he generously gave his time to others. You will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing you. Mellissa

I met Michael when we worked together at Housing New Zealand. As many people have mentioned he was a leader who had vision and for Housing NZ he was ahead of his time. Also, let us remember what a wonderful man he was, and I learnt a lot off him as a colleague around the same management table. I know he loved his family in fact he had a kind word for everyone he met. Rest in Peace Michael and thank you for being you. Pete

I knew Michael through working with Anne for many years, A more humble, caring, hardworking gentleman would be hard to find. A loving family man who ensured that he would be always available to help them when needed. Michelle, Emma, Katie and the grandchildren my love and condolences. A loyal server of the community through Lions, Michael you will be sorely missed. Anne you have been truly blessed, you have loved and been loved by your wonderful soulmate, I am so very sorry for your loss my friend, It has been a privilege to know you both. Moe mai ra Michael Vale

I first met Mike in 1973. We were both in Alpha Company 2/1 Battalion in Burnham military Camp. He was the Company Clerk. Unbeknown to me, once we were posted overseas to Singapore to 1RNZIR we would have barrack rooms next to each other on the second floor of Bravo Company barracks. In the evenings the barracks had a open corridor balcony which we would all lean over and watch the incoming torrential rain thunder and lightning storms. It was this place where many plans were hatched. Mike suggested we save our money and holidays and travel for eight weeks through Europe and England. Which is what we did as young twenty year olds at that time. In the Battalion Mike served as the company clerk then in the intelligences section in the Battalion HQ. Then as the Battalion photographer Another time, Mike decided one day we should try the best restaurant in Singapore a skyscraper with a revolving restaurant on top. The shark fin soup nearly killed me. So local food stalls proved the best after that. In our spare time, Mike loved going to Nee Soon and Transit road to buy camera gear and stereo equipment. Transit road shops sold everything including half the elephants from Africa, in the form of their intricately carved tusks. They were on sale everywhere at that time. Mike and I met and old Indian man in Transit road who read our fortunes. He told us we would both live very long lives and that I would out live him. Mike was not happy with my laughter as I said it was alright I would be able to come to his funeral. The Indian man was wrong on two accounts out of three as it turned out. Mike was a life long good friend after those years in Singapore and Malaysian Jungles. His family of girls and Anne too. I will miss him dearly. RIP Mike my old friend.

Michael was a truly decent person, great family man , husband and a mentor to so many, a long term friend to myself .His kindness and wisdom touched the lives of everyone may his memory bring all who knew him comfort and peace. Rest in peace Michael always be in our thoughts mate . Adrian

Michael was a friend from our days at high school in Napier We forged a friendship that spanned the years and was incredibly special. His tenacity for being a loyal..caring..understanding.. supportive mentor was strong.His consistent and reliable attitude towards both family and friends made Michael a brick in many people's lives.. especially mine. If we take the time to have the courage and determination to live in his footsteps..the world will be a better place...simply Michael...thankyou mate..rest in peace..your memory will burn strong in my heart. Don