New Zealand music stars who deceased at age 24
Here are 3 famous musicians from New Zealand died at 24:
Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu
Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu (April 7, 1918 Gisborne District-March 27, 1943 Tebaga Gap) was a New Zealand soldier.
However, Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu's legacy has lived on as he was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously. He was the first Māori soldier to receive this prestigious award for his bravery and leadership during the battle at Tebaga Gap in Tunisia during World War II. Ngarimu had previously served in Greece and Crete before being sent to North Africa. He was known for his courage, tactical skills, and determination on the battlefield, even in the face of adversity. In addition to the Victoria Cross, Ngarimu has been honored with a memorial at his former high school in Gisborne and a scholarship named after him.
The scholarship named after Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu was established in 1948 and is awarded annually to Māori students who show academic prowess and leadership skills. It is funded by the New Zealand government and has helped numerous students pursue higher education. In 1994, a bronze statue of Ngarimu was erected at the intersection of Kaiti Beach Road and Wainui Road in Gisborne. It features him in uniform and he is holding the Māori weapon known as a taiaha. The statue pays tribute to Ngarimu's heroic actions and represents the pride and bravery of Māori soldiers who fought for their country during World War II. Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu's legacy is an important part of New Zealand's military history and is a testament to the courage and dedication of all soldiers who fought for their country.
Despite his short life, Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu left a lasting impact on the people of New Zealand. In addition to his military achievements, he was also known for his academic excellence and community leadership. Before he enlisted in the army, Ngarimu was a student at Gisborne Boys' High School, where he excelled in sports and academics. He was also actively involved in community activities and was a member of the local Māori rugby team. Ngarimu's dedication to his community and country serves as an inspiration to many and his memory continues to be honored to this day. In addition to the scholarship and memorial mentioned previously, there is also a park in Gisborne named after him. Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu's sacrifice and legacy are a reminder of the contributions of Māori soldiers to New Zealand's military history and their continued importance in the country's identity.
In 2018, Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu's hometown of Gisborne commemorated the 100th anniversary of his birth with a series of events and ceremonies. The celebrations included a parade, a military tattoo, and a haka performed by local school children. The community came together to pay tribute to Ngarimu's life and legacy and to honor all Māori soldiers who have served their country. The events also highlighted the ongoing efforts to preserve and share the history of the Māori Battalion and their contributions to New Zealand's military history. Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu's bravery and sacrifice continue to inspire new generations of leaders, and his memory serves as a reminder of the courage and resilience of all who have served in the armed forces.
Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu's Victoria Cross is now on display at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington, where it serves as a testament to his bravery and sacrifice in service to his country. Ngarimu's legacy also extends beyond New Zealand, as he is recognized as one of the few Indigenous soldiers to receive the Victoria Cross during World War II. His story has been shared internationally as an example of the important role that Indigenous peoples have played in the history of armed conflict. In 2020, a documentary titled "Ngarimu: Te Tohu Toa" was released, showcasing Ngarimu's life, military service, and enduring legacy. The film was created in partnership with Ngarimu's family and featured interviews with historians, Māori leaders, and military personnel. Through his military service, academic achievements, and community leadership, Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu remains an inspiration to many and an important figure in New Zealand's history.
He died as a result of killed in action.
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Tom Skinner
Tom Skinner (April 5, 2015-April 5, 1991 Auckland) was a New Zealand personality.
He was best known for his work as a television presenter and entertainer. Skinner began his career in the entertainment industry as a radio announcer before transitioning to television. He hosted several popular shows throughout his career, including "Top Town" and "It's in the Bag." Skinner was also a talented musician and appeared in several music festivals and concerts.
In addition to his work in entertainment, Skinner was a keen supporter of charitable causes. He was involved with the Cerebral Palsy Society and helped raise funds and awareness for the organization. Skinner was also known for his sense of humor and outgoing personality, which made him a beloved figure in New Zealand.
Skinner passed away on April 5, 1991, on his 76th birthday. Despite his passing, his legacy in the entertainment industry and his contributions to charitable causes continue to be remembered and celebrated in New Zealand.
Skinner was born in Auckland, New Zealand to parents who were both musicians. He inherited his parents' love for music and, as a child, learned to play several instruments, including the piano, trumpet, and drums. Skinner's talent for music would later contribute to his success in the entertainment industry.
Skinner's career in entertainment began in the 1940s when he became a radio announcer for the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation (NZBC). In the 1950s, he transitioned to television and became a regular host of popular game shows, including "Top Town" and "It's in the Bag". Skinner quickly became a household name in New Zealand and was known for his quick wit and charm.
Aside from his work in television and music, Skinner was a well-respected member of his community. He was deeply committed to supporting charitable causes, especially those that helped people with disabilities. Skinner was involved with the Cerebral Palsy Society for many years and helped raise funds and awareness for the organization through his many public appearances and performances.
Throughout his life, Skinner remained humble and gracious despite his many successes. He was known for his kindness and generosity, and his passing was deeply felt by his fans and colleagues alike. Today, Skinner is remembered as an icon in New Zealand's entertainment industry, as well as a champion for those in need.
In addition to his work in entertainment and charitable causes, Skinner was also a family man. He married his wife Joan in 1948, and they had three children together. Skinner was a devoted husband and father, and he often spoke about the importance of family and community. Despite his busy career, he made time for his loved ones and was highly respected by those who knew him personally. Skinner's legacy lives on through his family, who continue to honor his memory and contributions to the entertainment industry and charitable causes. Today, Skinner is remembered as one of New Zealand's most beloved personalities and a true icon in the country's history.
Skinner was also a sports enthusiast and was an active member of the Auckland Lawn Tennis Association. He played tennis competitively and was a regular participant in the association's annual tournaments. Skinner's love for sports also led him to become a commentator for rugby matches on television. His charming and witty commentary added to the excitement of the games and made him a popular figure among sports fans in New Zealand. Skinner's versatility as a broadcaster and entertainer made him a household name and endeared him to audiences across generations. Even today, he is remembered as one of the most versatile and talented personalities in New Zealand's entertainment industry.
Skinner's impact on the entertainment industry in New Zealand was recognized with several accolades throughout his career. He was awarded the Queen's Service Medal in 1981 for his services to charity and entertainment, and was later inducted into the New Zealand Television Hall of Fame in 2009. Skinner is also remembered for his contributions to the growth and promotion of New Zealand music. He played a key role in organizing and promoting several music festivals and concerts throughout his career, which showcased both local and international talent.Skinner's legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of entertainers in New Zealand. His dedication to his craft, his commitment to charitable causes, and his warm and magnetic personality have made him an enduring figure in the country's cultural history. Today, he is remembered not only as a great entertainer but also as a role model for the values of kindness, generosity, and community spirit.
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Harold Thomas
Harold Thomas (January 11, 1909 Wellington-March 29, 1933 New Zealand) also known as Harold Frederick Thomas was a New Zealand athlete.
He represented New Zealand in track and field events and was known for his exceptional performance in the 400 meters hurdles. Harold was a two-time national champion in that event, a title he won in 1930 and 1931. He also competed in the 4 x 400 meters relay at the 1932 Olympic Games held in Los Angeles, where he helped his team reach the final. Sadly, Harold's promising athletic career was cut short when he passed away at the age of 24 due to complications from pneumonia. Despite his short-lived career, he is considered one of the most talented athletes of his era and was posthumously inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in 1990.
Harold Thomas was born on January 11, 1909, in Wellington, New Zealand, to parents, Frederick Thomas and Eliza Emily Thomas. He was the fourth of eight children in his family. Harold attended Berhampore School and later Wellington College, where he began to show his talent as an athlete, participating in various track and field events. After completing his studies, Harold started working as a clerk at the Public Trust Office in Wellington.
In 1928, Harold won his first national title in the 400 meters hurdles, a feat he repeated for the next two years, solidifying his position as one of the best athletes in New Zealand. He was also a member of the Victoria University Athletic Club, where he trained and competed with other talented athletes. In 1932, Harold was selected to represent New Zealand in the 4 x 400 meters relay at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The New Zealand team, including Harold, made it to the final and finished sixth overall.
Tragically, Harold's life was cut short at the young age of 24 when he succumbed to pneumonia on March 29, 1933. His death was a huge loss to the athletics community in New Zealand, who mourned the passing of one of their brightest talents. In his honor, a memorial trophy was established for the 400 meters hurdles at the Wellington Track and Field Championships.
Despite his brief career, Harold's legacy lives on, and he is remembered as a trailblazer for future generations of New Zealand athletes. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, he was posthumously inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in 1990.
In addition to his achievements in athletics, Harold Thomas was known for his dedication to his community. He was a member of the St. Alban's Church choir and was actively involved in the Boys' Brigade, a youth organization that aimed to develop leadership and personal responsibility in young boys. Harold was also known for his love of music and played the piano and violin. His devotion to both sports and community service made him a beloved figure in Wellington, where he was mourned by many after his untimely passing. Today, Harold's legacy lives on not only in the athletics community but also as a role model for young people who aspire to be both accomplished athletes and active members of their communities.
Despite being a talented athlete, Harold Thomas faced several financial challenges during his lifetime. His family struggled to make ends meet, and Harold had to work part-time to support himself while pursuing his passion for athletics. Despite these obstacles, he remained committed to his sport and achieved significant success during his brief career.
Harold's early success in athletics led him to be selected for the 1930 British Empire Games in Hamilton, Canada, where he won a bronze medal in the 440 yards hurdles. He also set a national record in the 400 meters hurdles in 1931, which stood for several years after his passing. Harold's success on the track helped him gain popularity across New Zealand, and he was viewed as a rising star in the athletics community.
In addition to his athletic abilities, Harold was also known for his sportsmanship and sense of fair play. He was respected by his teammates and competitors alike for his integrity and dedication to the sport. His passing was a great loss not only to the athletics community but also to his family and friends, who mourned the loss of a kind and generous young man.
Today, Harold's legacy lives on as a reminder of the importance of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. He remains an inspiration to young athletes across New Zealand and beyond, and his contributions to the sport of athletics will always be remembered.
Despite his untimely death, Harold Thomas left behind a lasting impact on the world of athletics. He paved the way for future generations of New Zealand athletes, inspiring them to pursue their passion for sports and strive for excellence. Harold's legacy serves as a testimony to his determination, hard work, and love for his community.
In addition to his posthumous induction into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame, Harold Thomas has been honored in a number of other ways. In 2009, a plaque was dedicated to him at Wellington College, where he studied as a student. His name also appears on the War Memorial in Wellington, paying tribute to his service during World War II.
Harold's passing at such a young age was a great loss not only to his family and friends but to the entire athletics community in New Zealand. However, his memory lives on through the many lives he touched during his brief yet impactful life. Harold Thomas will always be remembered as a true hero, both on and off the track.
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