Graeme Hart

Graeme Hart is a New Zealand business entrepreneur. After graduating from high school, Hart worked as a tow truck driver and a panel beater. Hart earned his MBA from the University of Otago in 1987. His research thesis explains the growth strategy for Rank, which was then a modest staffing firm. This method relies on well-performing companies' cash flow to fund debt, which improves the equity value of the initial investors when the debt is paid off. In 1990, Hart got a significant break when he bought the Government Printing Office for less than its market value. The purchase price was 1.4 times earnings, and Hart was given favorable payment conditions.

New Zealand's then-Prime Minister David Lange initially refused to approve the deal. The next year, he purchased Whitcoulls Group, which included a bookshop chain as well as office and stationery businesses. He has since sold these holdings. His trip began with a log cabin and ended with a gorgeous white villa. Because of his modesty and desire to keep a low profile, Hart is referred to as an undercover billionaire. In New Zealand, Graeme has homes in Auckland and Waiheke Island. He also has a 58-meter luxury motor yacht that attracts a lot of tourists. He is one of the richest people in New Zealand.

Net worth: $9.7 Billion