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Industry farewells Colenso co-founder Hylton Mackley
Hylton Mackley was one of four founders of Colenso in New Zealand.
The advertising industry is farewelling Hylton Mackley AM, who died on January 7, 2026.
Mackley was one of four people who founded agency Colenso in Aotearoa in 1969. By the time it merged with Clemenger Group in 1987, Colenso was the largest marketing communications agency in the country.
Former chairman of Clemenger Group Robert Morgan has paid tribute to Mackley, describing him as a person synonymous with the advertising industry on both sides of the Tasman.
“Hylton’s contributions shaped Clemenger Group and the industry in both New Zealand and Australia for more than 50 years,” says Morgan.
“His mischievous and entrepreneurial spirit has also remained part of Colenso’s DNA. The agency’s annual celebration of Founders Day recalls the story when Hylton and his co-founders would leave the lights on at the end of the day – making the other agencies think they were working through the night. For those who knew Hylton, this story would come as no surprise!
“On behalf of those who worked with or were mentored by him, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Hylton’s family, friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.”
Mackley held the role of finance director of Clemenger Group until 2011. He then became a non-executive director of the company and later, chairman emeritus of Clemenger Group New Zealand.
Highly regarded
Outside of Clemenger Group, Mackley was as honorary treasurer of the Victorian Artists Society (FVAS) in Australia. He was instrumental to the restoration of the society’s Heritage Victoria and National Trust listed building, preserving galleries that have housed artists’ work since 1874.
His involvement also extended to a prestigious award and exhibition hosted in his name, showcasing the best artistic talent in painting and sculpture each year.
He was also a director of the Barnett Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation involved in the affordable housing sector. He was highly regarded in the community for his fundraising efforts and financial acumen.
Mackley received an Order of Australia (AM) in 2018 for his contribution to the advertising industry and the arts.
He is survived by his wife, Eileen Mackley AM, and sons Justin and Adam.
