Once known for his colourful bow ties, he was named the greatest living Aucklander in a survey in The Aucklander in 2010.
As director of the Auckland War Memorial Museum for 13 years, he helped transform it into an institution of international standing, pushing through its $115 million expansion.
He was central to book, art and architectural awards and helped establish an art gallery in a former Takapuna library.
Dr Wilson was the Arts Foundation governor from 2002 to 2010.
In a statement, the foundation said Dr Wilson was "an excellent advocate for the visual arts".
"Rodney provided a confident voice for architecture, furniture design and sculpture at selection meetings. We will miss Rodney's advice, his warm smile and laughter."
In 2011, a celebration of his achievements was held in Auckland.
Artist John Coley said at the time: "Rodney has been a most remarkable, sometimes controversial figure in our country's museum history. He has been a visionary, passionate and highly effective leader."
A death notice for Dr Wilson thanked the teams at the Auckland City Hospital oncology ward and Mercy Hospice, as well as his doctors.
"A gathering of Rodney's friends and family will farewell Rodney to the great immensity," the notice said.
