Photographer Michael “Mike” Kavanaugh and Son Phoenix Passed Away, New Zealand Car Community Mourns
The New Zealand automotive community is mourning the heartbreaking reported passing of Michael “Mike” Kavanaugh and his son, Phoenix, a devastating loss that has left friends, fellow car enthusiasts and admirers of Mike’s creative work grieving.
Mike was remembered as a gifted photographer, talented creator and passionate member of New Zealand’s car community. Through his photography work, Rolling Addiction, he captured the personality, pride and dedication behind countless vehicles and automotive builds. His photographs helped preserve memories from car events while showcasing the people and machines that made the community special.
Beyond photography, Mike was also known for creating detailed miniature-scale car replicas. His creative work reflected his deep enthusiasm for automobiles and his ability to transform that passion into carefully crafted projects. Friends and fellow enthusiasts admired both his talent and the enthusiasm he brought to the automotive scene.
Among the vehicles particularly associated with Mike was his Mazda 323, which he had reportedly spent years lovingly restoring. For a dedicated Rotary enthusiast, the project represented more than the restoration of a vehicle. It reflected patience, commitment and an appreciation for automotive history, engineering and the culture surrounding Rotary-powered cars.
News of Mike’s reported passing alongside his son Phoenix has brought profound sadness to those who knew them. Tributes have remembered Mike not only for his photography and automotive projects but also for the friendships and memories he created throughout the New Zealand car scene.
For people who encountered Mike at automotive gatherings, followed Rolling Addiction or shared his enthusiasm for Rotary vehicles, his absence is expected to be deeply felt. His camera, creativity and passion became familiar parts of the community, making the news especially difficult for those who knew him personally.
The loss of a father and son has brought immense grief to their family, friends and wider community. The circumstances and additional details surrounding their deaths were not provided in the tribute information available, and no speculation is being made about what happened.
Mike’s photographs, miniature creations, restoration projects and the memories shared by fellow enthusiasts will remain part of the legacy he leaves behind. Through Rolling Addiction and his involvement in the automotive community, he helped document moments, vehicles and friendships that might otherwise have been forgotten.
As tributes continue for Michael “Mike” Kavanaugh and Phoenix, condolences are being extended to their family and loved ones. Their memory will continue through the people they touched, the vehicles they celebrated and the automotive community that remembers them.
May Michael “Mike” Kavanaugh and Phoenix rest in peace.
