New Zealand music stars who deceased at age 46
Here are 2 famous musicians from New Zealand died at 46:
Frederick Merriman
Frederick Merriman (October 18, 1818 Marlborough, Wiltshire-July 21, 1865 Parnell, New Zealand) was a New Zealand lawyer.
He was born in Marlborough, Wiltshire, England, and arrived in New Zealand on August 1843. He initially began his career as a land surveyor before being admitted to the bar in 1849. Once becoming qualified, he practiced law in Nelson and became prominent in the province.
Merriman was appointed as a judge of the Native Land Court in 1861 and was also appointed Crown Solicitor of Nelson. In 1863, he was requested by Government officials to investigate charges of war crimes made against British troops during the New Zealand Wars. Merriman harshly criticized the military's conduct and methods and his report was suppressed and never published.
Despite his criticisms, he remained involved in public life and served as a member of the Executive Council, which acted as an advisory board to the Governor. He also served as a member of the Legislative Council and contributed significantly to debates on land policies and native affairs. His sudden death occurred in Parnell, New Zealand, in 1865, leaving a lasting impact on the legal and political landscape of early colonial New Zealand.
Merriman was also known for his advocacy for the rights of the Maori people, supporting their cultural practices and land rights. He often defended them in court and was well respected among the Maori community. In addition to his legal and political career, Merriman was also involved in various humanitarian causes. He served as chairman of the Nelson Immigration Society, which aimed to provide assistance to new immigrants in the province. He also played a key role in establishing schools and hospitals in the region. Merriman's legacy is still remembered in New Zealand, with a street in Nelson named after him and a plaque honoring his contributions to the legal profession located in the Nelson courthouse.
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Ken Bloxham
Ken Bloxham (January 4, 1954 Milton-October 10, 2000 Dunedin) was a New Zealand personality.
He was known for his involvement in the entertainment industry, particularly as a producer, director, and actor. His career began in the late 1970s as a performer on the New Zealand variety show "That's Country". Bloxham went on to work on various television series and films, including "Gloss", "Shortland Street", and "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys". He was also the creator and producer of the popular children's program "The Big Breakfast".
Aside from his career in entertainment, Bloxham was also a prominent member of the New Zealand LGBT community. He was involved in various LGBTQ organizations and advocated for LGBTQ rights. In 1999, he was awarded the Queen's Service Medal for his service to the community.
Bloxham passed away in 2000 at the age of 46 due to complications from AIDS. He is remembered as a trailblazer in the New Zealand entertainment industry and a champion of LGBTQ rights.
Following his passing, a scholarship was established in his name at the University of Otago to support students studying film and television production. In addition, a performing arts award was named in his honor at Logan Park High School in Dunedin. Bloxham's legacy continues to inspire and lift up the LGBTQ community and the arts community in New Zealand. He is remembered as a talented and dedicated artist who sought to make a positive impact through his work and activism.
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