Bill Fong left school at 15 years of age to help his mother and sisters run their fruit shop located in Panmure. He also worked at the Point Chevalier fruit shop for much of his young adult life. Bill married in 1965, and together with his wife Janice, continued to run the successful, and well-loved business.
ENTREPRENEUR
In 1973, Bill sold his shop, continuing to prove his business prowess with a joint venture alongside Ronald and Peter Chan into the fruit and vege side of ‘Three Guys’ supermarket chain. This marked the beginning of new chapter in their lives as they began to grow their own businesses. The three entrepreneurs were behind the start of the ‘Fruit World’ and ‘Tai Ping Trading Company’ supermarkets, and several restaurants and other food retailers.
TELEVISION PERSONALITY
Bill was a strong personality. From 1983 through 1987, he hosted a weekly fruit and vege segment on the TVONE programme ‘Top Half’. He was well liked, and became a household name alongside fellow host and fruit retailer Alastair Johnson.
Though born in New Zealand, Bill had a deep connection with his Chinese culture and identity. He was a board member of the Auckland Chinese Community Centre (ACCC) from 1989 through 1995. He was also a generous member of the Auckland Zong Shan Clan Association.
Bill filming a segment of “Top Half” for TVONE
Read more about the Fong family.
William ‘Bill’ Wai Lum Fong
Died 2012
