Richard Edward Fulton

To the Fulton Family, My deepest condolences and apologies for the late message. I retired from Waka Kotahi 3 years ago and have been out of the information loop. It was only when I saw the bench at the end of the Chain Hills tunnels trail today (19 Feb 2026), that I became aware of Richard’s passing. I am in shock and saddened. I had the upmost respect for him and I can’t believe he was taken so soon. I worked with Richard in my roles as Transportation Engineer at both the DCC and NZTA. It would be an honour to make a donation on his behalf for the Dunedin Tunnels Trust. Sending love.

To the Fulton Family, I was saddened to read of Richard's death and offer my condolences to you all as you deal with Richard's passing.

Rich, I know you always liked the poem Sam Hunt wrote for Molenberg Bread so here’s a modified version for you. I've travelled across the islands I've ferried across straights Got a million Kiwi memories But the best are with my mates The Trips I did with Rich and Arth Always took me by surprise They tanalised my friendships brought teardrops to my eyes And now I'll miss my old mate Rich He's down beneath the ground But I'll always have the memories And a jug to wash them down. Miss you Rich.

To the Fulton family Richard's passing came as a complete shock. I was completely unaware Richard was even sick. As you know I met Richard on numerous ocassions at the Rowing club where his daughters rowed. Rowing is quite the gig for parents, with regular 5 am starts. You honestly get to see people for who they really are. There is no dressing up, it shands on, listening to instructions and getting stuck in. I was never sure if he really enjoyed it, but I knew he did it for the love of his family. As many allude, Richard was a problem solver, a person, along with Sharron, who just got stuff done. His passing is true loss for everyone he touched, particularly Sharon, Pippa, Anna and Olive. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. With all my love. Dave

So sorry to hear about your passing, I haven't spent alot of time with you as an adult but had such great times and wonderful memories of you as a flatmate in Christchurch with Mouse and James, you were such a free spirited, funny, caring person and I am so sad for you and your family. Thinking of you all at this sad time and am sure Rich put at spark and smile into all that loved him. Love Gina Langridge (Giera)

Thinking of you all and remembering lots of happy times spent with Richard and Arthur as they were growing up XXX

On behalf of the Amalgamated Workers Union New Zealand, we would like to express our deepest regrets that you have passed, Richard. The union has had a long and enduring relationship with you and your family company even though we are on competing sides of the table we have always shown each other respect and it will continue in your honor. I do not doubt that you will be up there having great conversations with our late Calvin Fisher about employment-related matters but nonetheless, we both were able to make sure we looked after each other through that mutual respect. To the family, we as individuals or even as a union could not speak the words that would ease the pain of Richard's passing but to take some comfort in knowing his pain is over and time will ease yours and ours. With love and respect from all at the Amalgamated Workers New Zealand, Rest easy Richard.

Rest in peace Rich. Fly high. A bloody horrible way to pass but at least no more pain. Thoughts are with all the family. X