Born in 1919[1] in Waipawa, Kay spent in early years in Christchurch in the care of his aunt due to his mother's poor health.

He was educated at Gisborne Boys High School and spent a year at Christ's College in Christchurch.

[6] In 2007, Kay received the Governor General's Award from the NZAFA and became a Fellow of the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts.

His paintings have been purchased by the National Art Gallery, Archives New Zealand, the Turnbull Library, US President Lyndon B. Johnson, Prime Minister Keith Holyoake and former Governor-Generals.

[9] In the 2008 New Year Honours, Kay was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to art and military history.