The words were those of Timaru businessman Mike Cotton but reflected the feelings of the 500-strong crowd who braved chilly South Canterbury weather to offer support to a man who enjoys almost legendary status in the area.
Mr Hubbard and his wife, Margaret (Jean) are facing scrutiny from the Serious Fraud Office after the Government appointed statutory managers to Aorangi Securities Ltd and the couple's business interests on Sunday. The rare move was sparked by a complaint from one investor.
Mr Cotton told today's gathering the Hubbards had helped many young farmers on to their land, businesses to take off and charities and sports groups to flourish.
"The Hubbards are not high-fliers and never have been," he said.
"They're old-school New Zealanders.
"Their generosity and charitable work are unheralded in New Zealand history."
Timaru Mayor Janie Annear said the South Canterbury community was grateful for the "immeasurable good" the couple had done for the area for many years, while gynaecologist Albert Makary said this morning's turnout had restored his pride in New Zealand -- pride which had disappeared with the news the Hubbards were being investigated.
"Mr Hubbard, we nominated you for a knighthood. Today you have got it.
"The amount of love that these people are showing is better than a knighthood."
Mr Hubbard had, as a child, been unable to afford the penny his school photo cost. That photo was sent to him only recently, and in the intervening 70-plus years, the Hubbards had donated $200 million to charity, Mr Makary said.
"I think New Zealand needs more Allan Hubbards."
Mr Makary had a message for the Government, including "our beloved prime minister": It was okay to investigate people but not to humiliate them, as he felt had happened to the Hubbards.
The rally spontaneously marched to South Canterbury Finance, where a frail-looking Mrs Hubbard appeared on the steps.
"All I can say is 'thank you'," she said in what was described as an emotional moment for many.
A Facebook group defending Mr Hubbard, called Leave Allan Hubbard Alone, last night had more than 1900 members.
Mr Hubbard's online supporters include former employees, investors, and businesspeople and farmers who have benefited from his advice and generosity.
Members praised his generosity and modest lifestyle, and expressed outrage and disbelief at the Government's move.
"It doesn't make sense," wrote one.
"Whoever has it in for this great man should be shot," wrote another.
Leigh-Anne Stratford, a former SCF employee and a former investor with Aorangi Securities, called on those who had received support from Mr Hubbard to stand behind him.
"I am shocked at the way Mr Hubbard is being treated," she wrote.
"For a very busy man he always makes the time to come out of his office and say hi when I pop in on trips back to Timaru.
"This man has helped so many businesses, farmers and charities over the years and provided numerous South Canterbury people with jobs and opportunities."
Aorangi Securities investor Jenny Bevin said she was happy with her investment and called the investigation "a gross waste of taxpayer money".
Other supporters credited Mr Hubbard with pulling their businesses out of rough times, and defended his "old-school" business practices.
Another Facebook page, called Help Allan Hubbard, has been set up as part of a campaign that includes newspaper adverts defending the businessman.
