The sporting world, global fitness industry, and communities across New Zealand are mourning the passing of Les Mills, the legendary Olympian, former Auckland mayor, and pioneering fitness entrepreneur who transformed the way millions of people exercise around the world. Mills died on June 28, 2026, at the age of 91, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that spans elite athletics, public service, and one of the world’s most successful fitness organizations.
His family announced his passing in a heartfelt statement, remembering him as “an absolute legend” whose influence extended far beyond competitive sport. Tributes quickly poured in from athletes, political leaders, fitness professionals, and admirers worldwide, all honoring a man whose life’s work inspired generations to pursue healthier, more active lives.
Born on November 1, 1934, in Auckland, New Zealand, Leslie Roy Mills emerged as one of New Zealand’s greatest field athletes. During an exceptional international career, he represented his country at four consecutive Olympic Games—Rome 1960, Tokyo 1964, Mexico City 1968, and Munich 1972—in the discus and shot put. His crowning athletic achievement came in 1966, when he captured the Commonwealth Games gold medal in the discus, cementing his place among New Zealand’s sporting greats.
While his accomplishments in athletics alone would have secured his legacy, Mills’ greatest contribution arguably came after he stepped away from elite competition. In 1968, together with his late wife, Colleen Mills, he founded a modest fitness club in Auckland with a simple vision: to make exercise accessible, enjoyable, and life-changing for ordinary people.
That vision evolved into Les Mills International, now one of the world’s leading fitness companies. Under the leadership of the Mills family, the organization pioneered revolutionary group fitness programs including BODYPUMP®, BODYCOMBAT®, BODYBALANCE®, BODYATTACK®, RPM®, and numerous other classes now taught in more than 20,000 fitness facilities across over 100 countries. Every week, millions of people participate in Les Mills workouts, making his influence one of the most significant in the history of modern fitness.
Beyond sport and business, Mills dedicated nearly a decade to public service as the Mayor of Auckland City, serving from 1990 to 1998. During his tenure, he championed civic development, infrastructure improvements, and initiatives designed to strengthen Auckland as one of New Zealand’s leading cities. His leadership earned respect across political and community circles, further demonstrating his lifelong commitment to improving the lives of others.
Throughout his career, Mills remained an unwavering advocate for physical activity, believing that exercise could transform both individuals and communities. His philosophy extended beyond athletic performance, emphasizing discipline, confidence, mental well-being, and lifelong health. That belief became the foundation of a global movement that continues to shape the fitness industry decades after its creation.
Following news of his death, tributes flooded social media and news outlets from around the world. Friends, former athletes, colleagues, and members of the international fitness community remembered Mills as an inspirational leader, visionary entrepreneur, devoted family man, and humble mentor whose influence reached far beyond gyms and sporting arenas. Many credited him with changing the global perception of group fitness and creating opportunities for millions to improve their health through exercise.
The Mills family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support shown following his passing while asking for privacy as they mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and patriarch. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family at a later date.
Les Mills’ passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in New Zealand’s sporting and civic history, but his legacy will endure through the athletes he inspired, the communities he served, and the millions of people around the world whose lives have been transformed through the fitness movement bearing his name.
Les Mills will be remembered as an Olympic champion, visionary fitness pioneer, respected public servant, and one of the most influential figures in the history of global health and exercise. His passion, leadership, and unwavering belief in the power of movement will continue to inspire generations to come. Heartfelt condolences are extended to his family, friends, colleagues, and admirers around the world. May he rest in eternal peace.
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