Under-cloud magnate receives support from all parts of NZ

Members of the public show their support of Allan Hubbard in Timaru on Friday. Photo / Sarah Ivey

Supporters of troubled businessman Allan Hubbard have taken the fight to newspapers and the internet to try to clear his name.

The Government this month moved to seize control of the millionaire South Island financier's affairs, and confirmed that the Serious Fraud Office was investigating possible breaches of the Crimes Act.

In response to the investigation, "Help Allan Hubbard" advertisements have been placed in newspapers and a Facebook page to support him has attracted more than 600 followers since its launch on Friday.

The advertisement praises Mr Hubbard for the "many people and organisations" he and his wife, Jean, have helped over the past 50 years.

"Mr Hubbard has a long and solid reputation of meeting all his commitments and the officials in Government need to be made aware of the contribution the Hubbards have made to New Zealand organisations and citizens."

Supporters are encouraged to email Prime Minister John Key and Commerce Minister Simon Power, telling them "what Mr and Mrs Hubbard have done for you".

The movement is being led by the prominent Taupo rescue helicopter pilot John Funnell, who said he had been approached by friends of Mr Hubbard upset by the investigation and wanting to defend his reputation.

After speaking to Mr Hubbard himself, Mr Funnell said he was more convinced than ever that the Serious Fraud Office would not uncover any transactions that the public had any cause to be concerned about.

He said Mr Hubbard was very pleased with the support. "His house is inundated with cards and letters of support and flowers and I think that it's buoyed him along quite a bit. It's showed him he's not alone."

Mr Funnell worked for Mr Hubbard's NZ Helicopters 30 years ago.