Pathetic Facts

New Zealand music stars who deceased at age 61

Here are 14 famous musicians from New Zealand died at 61:

Barry Crump

Barry Crump (May 15, 1935 Auckland-July 3, 1996 New Zealand) was a New Zealand writer and actor. He had one child, Martin Crump.

Crump is best known for his humorous novels based on his experiences as a government deer culler and pig hunter in the remote Urewera Ranges in the 1950s and 1960s. His most famous book, "A Good Keen Man," was published in 1960 and sold more than a million copies worldwide. Crump also wrote a number of other successful books, including "Hang On a Minute Mate," "Bastards I Have Met," and "Wild Pork and Watercress," which was later adapted into the hit film "Hunt for the Wilderpeople" in 2016. In addition to his writing career, Crump was also a well-known TV personality in New Zealand, hosting the popular hunting and fishing show "Wild Country" in the 1980s.

Crump was born in Auckland, New Zealand, and grew up in the Northland region. He left school at the age of 15 and worked a variety of jobs before becoming a government deer culler and pig hunter in the Urewera Ranges in the early 1950s. Crump was known for his tough, no-nonsense approach and his ability to survive in the harsh wilderness.

In addition to his writing and TV work, Crump also acted in several films, including "The End of the Golden Weather" (1991) and "Came a Hot Friday" (1985). He was also a keen pilot and owned his own plane, which he used to explore New Zealand's remote areas.

Crump died in 1996 at the age of 61 after suffering a heart attack on a hunting trip in the Urewera Ranges. His books continue to be popular in New Zealand and around the world, and his legacy as a writer and outdoorsman is celebrated by many.

Crump was known for his irreverent, laconic writing style, which struck a chord with many New Zealanders. He often wrote about masculine themes such as hunting, fishing, and car racing, and his characters were typically salt-of-the-earth types who found humor in difficult situations. Despite his success, Crump remained humble and grounded, and he was widely respected for his down-to-earth attitude.

In addition to his literary and media work, Crump was also a successful businessman. He owned several hunting lodges and had a stake in a deer farming operation. He was also involved in the creation of a line of outdoor clothing, which became popular in New Zealand and Australia.

Crump's legacy as a writer has continued to grow since his death, with several of his books being republished and adapted for screen and stage. His influence can be felt not only in New Zealand literature and media, but also in the rugged, independent spirit of the country's outdoors culture.

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Lincoln Hurring

Lincoln Hurring (September 15, 1931-April 21, 1993) was a New Zealand swimmer.

He represented New Zealand at the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, where he competed in the men's 100m freestyle and 4x200m freestyle relay events. He also won several national championships in the 100m and 200m freestyle events. After retiring from competitive swimming, Hurring became a successful swim coach and was inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in 1990. His daughter, Angela, also became a successful swimmer and represented New Zealand at the 1972 and 1976 Summer Olympics.

As a coach, Hurring helped lead the New Zealand swimming team to multiple Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games. He also served as the head coach for the Singapore national swimming team, where he coached his daughter Angela. In addition to his coaching, Hurring became involved in the establishment of the New Zealand Swim School, which teaches young children how to swim and promotes water safety. Hurring passed away in 1993 at the age of 61, but his legacy in New Zealand swimming continues to this day. The Lincoln Hurring Memorial Swim Meet is held annually in his honor.

Hurring was born in Auckland, New Zealand, and began swimming at a young age. He developed a love for the sport and quickly became known for his speed and endurance in the freestyle events. As a teenager, Hurring competed in local and national meets, and qualified to represent New Zealand at the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, Finland.

At the Olympics, Hurring swam in both the men's 100m freestyle and the 4x200m freestyle relay events. Although he didn't medal, Hurring set national records in both events and gained valuable experience that would later help him as a coach.

After retiring from competitive swimming, Hurring turned his focus to coaching. He began working with swimmers in Auckland, and soon gained a reputation for his effective coaching methods and passion for the sport. Hurring went on to coach several successful swimmers, including his daughter, Angela, who became a three-time Olympic swimmer.

In addition to his work as a coach, Hurring was involved in the establishment of the New Zealand Swim School, which promotes water safety and teaches young children how to swim. The school has since become a model for other swim programs around the world.

Hurring's dedication to swimming and coaching is honored through the Lincoln Hurring Memorial Swim Meet, which is held annually in his hometown of Auckland. The meet brings together swimmers from across New Zealand to compete and celebrate Hurring's legacy in the sport.

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Tony Shelly

Tony Shelly (February 2, 1937 Wellington-October 4, 1998 Taupo) was a New Zealand race car driver.

He started his career in the 1960s and became known for his skills in racing touring cars and Formula 5000 open-wheelers. In 1969 and 1970, he won consecutive New Zealand Grand Prix titles, and in 1971 he took second place in the Tasman Series. Shelly also competed in the Australian Grand Prix and the Bathurst 1000 endurance race. He retired in the early 1980s and later became a motorsport commentator. Shelly was posthumously inducted into the New Zealand Motorsport Hall of Fame in 2014.

During his racing career, Tony Shelly competed in a variety of different types of cars, including Holden, Porsche, and McLaren. Despite experiencing a number of unfortunate setbacks throughout his career, including engine troubles and crashes, Shelly remained a respected figure in the New Zealand racing community. He was known for his sportsmanship, good humor, and his willingness to help younger drivers develop their skills. After retiring from racing, he remained involved with the sport as a commentator and contributed significantly to the development of motorsport in New Zealand. Off the racetrack, Shelly was also known for his love of music and was a talented guitarist.

In addition to his success in motorsports, Tony Shelly was a successful businessman. He owned and operated a number of car dealerships throughout New Zealand and was known for his entrepreneurial spirit. Shelly was a well-respected member of the community, known for his willingness to give back through charitable donations and community service. He was particularly active in promoting road safety and worked closely with government officials to implement policies aimed at reducing the number of car accidents on New Zealand's roads. Shelly died in a car crash in 1998, but his contributions to New Zealand's motorsport industry and his legacy as a successful businessman and community leader live on to this day.

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Bruce Beetham

Bruce Beetham (February 16, 1936 New Plymouth-May 3, 1997 Palmerston North) was a New Zealand personality.

He served as the leader of the New Zealand Democratic Party and as a Member of Parliament in the 1980s. Beetham was born in New Plymouth and received his education at the University of Auckland. He initially worked as a teacher and then served as a Member of Parliament from 1978 to 1987. He was known for his left-wing views and his staunch opposition to government privatization efforts. After leaving politics, Beetham worked as a senior public servant and also served as the chairman of the New Zealand Lotteries Commission. He was a respected figure in New Zealand politics and is remembered for his commitment to social justice and equality.

During his time as a Member of Parliament, Bruce Beetham was instrumental in the establishment of the Waitangi Tribunal, which was created to address grievances of the Maori people against the New Zealand government. He was also a strong advocate for nuclear disarmament and worked tirelessly to promote peace and non-violence. Beetham was known for his fiery speeches and for his willingness to stand up to the establishment in defense of individual rights and liberties. He passed away in Palmerston North in 1997, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to the values of social democracy and progressive political activism.

In addition to his political and public service career, Bruce Beetham was also an author and published several books throughout his life, including "The Water Rights of the Waitangi Tribunal" and "The State and the People." He was deeply committed to environmental causes and played a key role in the formation of the New Zealand Conservation Authority, which is responsible for advising the government on matters related to conservation and natural resource management. Beetham was also a strong supporter of the arts and was involved in the establishment of the New Zealand Film Commission. He was married to his wife Margaret and had four children. Beetham's legacy as a champion of social justice and progressive values continues to inspire and influence political activists and leaders in New Zealand today.

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Bruce Mason

Bruce Mason (September 28, 1921 Wellington-December 31, 1982 Wellington) was a New Zealand writer, playwright and film director.

He is considered to be one of New Zealand's greatest playwrights and is best known for his plays "The Pohutukawa Tree" and "End of the Golden Weather". Mason wrote extensively on the themes of cultural identity, social inequality and New Zealand culture, and his works have been widely produced both in New Zealand and internationally. In addition to his literary career, Mason was also a prominent figure in New Zealand film, directing the acclaimed documentaries "Bastion Point: Day 507" and "Maui One Man Against the State". Despite his success, Mason struggled with depression for most of his life and died by suicide in 1982. His legacy continues to inspire generations of New Zealand artists and his works remain an important part of the country's cultural landscape.

Mason was born in Wellington, New Zealand in 1921. He attended Wellington College and went on to study at the Victoria University of Wellington. After completing his studies, he worked as a journalist for various newspapers and magazines. In 1947, he began writing plays and eventually found success as a playwright. His first play, "The Candlestickmaker", was performed in 1955.

Mason's plays often explored themes of identity and cultural tensions in New Zealand society. "The Pohutukawa Tree", which was first performed in 1960, is a powerful commentary on Māori-Pākehā relations. "End of the Golden Weather", which was first performed in 1959, is a nostalgic look at the idyllic summer holidays of Mason's childhood.

In addition to his plays, Mason also wrote screenplays for films and television. He directed two documentaries: "Bastion Point: Day 507", which chronicled the Māori land rights protests of the 1970s, and "Maui One Man Against the State", which told the story of the legendary Polynesian adventurer Maui.

Mason's career was also marked by personal struggles. He battled depression for much of his life and died by suicide in 1982. Despite his tragic end, Mason's contributions to New Zealand literature and culture continue to be celebrated. He was posthumously awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit in 1997 and his plays remain popular both in New Zealand and internationally.

Mason's impact on the New Zealand artistic community extended beyond his own writing and directing. He was a mentor and friend to many young artists and writers, and his support helped launch the careers of several successful New Zealand playwrights. Mason was also a founder of the New Zealand Society of Authors, and he played an instrumental role in advocating for the rights and recognition of New Zealand writers. He was known for his generosity and humor, and his friends and colleagues remember him as a kind and supportive presence in their lives. Today, Mason's legacy continues to inspire New Zealand artists who strive to create work that captures the complexity and richness of their country's culture and history.

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Fred Thompson

Fred Thompson (March 30, 1910-April 5, 1971) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a radio and television broadcaster, as well as a writer, actor, and politician. Thompson began his career in broadcasting in the 1930s and became a well-known voice on New Zealand radio. He later went on to host his own television variety show, "The Late Show with Fred Thompson," which aired for several years in the 1960s.

Aside from his media career, Thompson was also a successful stage actor, appearing in productions both in New Zealand and Australia. He also wrote several plays and books, including a biography of former New Zealand Prime Minister Michael Joseph Savage.

In the 1950s, Thompson became involved in politics and was elected to the New Zealand Parliament as a member of the Labour Party. He served as a Member of Parliament for several years before retiring from politics.

Thompson passed away in 1971 at the age of 61.

During his time in Parliament, Fred Thompson was known for his passionate advocacy of social justice issues, particularly the rights of workers and marginalized communities. He was instrumental in the establishment of state housing in New Zealand and played a key role in the introduction of the 40-hour workweek.

In addition to his political and entertainment pursuits, Thompson was also a keen outdoorsman and conservationist. He was a founding member of the New Zealand Deerstalkers' Association and was involved in campaigns to protect endangered species and preserve natural habitats.

Thompson was widely regarded as a beloved figure in New Zealand, known for his charm, wit, and dedication to public service. In recognition of his contributions to broadcasting and the arts, he was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1959.

Furthermore, Fred Thompson was also a World War II veteran, having served in the New Zealand Army. He was involved in the Pacific campaign and was wounded in action, receiving a Military Cross for his bravery. After the war, Thompson used his experiences to campaign for peace, becoming involved in the World Peace Council and advocating for disarmament and nuclear-free policies. In addition to his many other accomplishments, Thompson was also a skilled musician, playing both piano and trumpet. He often incorporated music into his radio and television programs, and even released several records throughout his career. Despite passing away over 50 years ago, Fred Thompson's legacy continues to be remembered and celebrated in New Zealand.

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Elizabeth McCombs

Elizabeth McCombs (November 19, 1873 Kaiapoi-June 7, 1935 Christchurch) was a New Zealand personality. Her child is called Terry McCombs.

Elizabeth McCombs was the first woman elected to the Parliament of New Zealand, serving as a Member of Parliament (MP) from 1933 until her sudden death in 1935. Prior to her political career, she was a teacher and prominent member of various social and political organizations. McCombs was a strong advocate for women's rights and social justice issues, and played an important role in advancing the cause of women's suffrage in New Zealand. She is remembered as a trailblazer for women in politics and a champion for the marginalized and disenfranchised.

During her time in Parliament, McCombs focused on issues such as the welfare of children, social housing, and workers' rights. She also advocated for the establishment of a national health service and was a vocal opponent of New Zealand's involvement in the British Empire's war in Abyssinia. McCombs was known for her sincere and compassionate approach to politics and was widely respected by her colleagues in Parliament. Her sudden death at the age of 61 was greatly mourned by the people of New Zealand and she was posthumously awarded the King George V Silver Jubilee Medal. Today, Elizabeth McCombs is remembered as a pioneering figure in New Zealand politics and a symbol of women's empowerment.

In addition to her political and social activism, Elizabeth McCombs was also a noted academic and writer. She was an accomplished poet and published several poems and essays in various literary journals. McCombs also held a Bachelor of Arts degree from Canterbury College and was an avid promoter of education for women. She believed that education was essential for the advancement of women and worked tirelessly to expand educational opportunities for girls and women in New Zealand. In recognition of her contributions to education and women's rights, Burnside High School in Christchurch has a house named after her - McCombs House. Furthermore, the Elizabeth McCombs Memorial Lecture series is held annually at the University of Canterbury in her honour, bringing together scholars and activists to discuss social justice issues. Elizabeth McCombs remains a significant figure in New Zealand history and continues to inspire generations of women to take up leadership positions in politics and beyond.

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Neroli Fairhall

Neroli Fairhall (August 26, 1944 Christchurch-June 11, 2006 Christchurch) was a New Zealand personality.

She was born as Neroli Susan Barbara Sadler in Christchurch, New Zealand in 1944. Fairhall was a pioneering archer who made history by becoming the first paraplegic athlete to compete in an Olympic Games when she competed in the 1984 Summer Paralympics in Los Angeles. She was also the first woman to represent New Zealand at an Olympic Games in archery. At the games, she reached the quarterfinals of the women's individual event.

In addition to her archery career, Fairhall was also a keen sailor and environmentalist. She was actively involved in the New Zealand Green Party and stood as a candidate in the 1990 general election. She also owned and operated a yacht charter business in the Marlborough Sounds.

Fairhall was married twice, first to musician Roger Fairhurst, with whom she had one son, and later to Gordon Goldsack. She passed away in Christchurch in 2006, at the age of 61, after a long battle with cancer.

Fairhall's interest in archery began after she was paralyzed from the waist down in a car accident in 1972. She took up the sport as part of her rehabilitation, and discovered a natural talent for it. She went on to win gold medals at several international events, including the Commonwealth Games and the World Championships.

Aside from her accomplishments in archery, Fairhall was also active in disability advocacy. She served as president of the New Zealand Paraplegic and Physically Disabled Federation from 1981 to 1983, and was appointed to the Queen's Service Order for Community Service in 1985.

Fairhall's legacy continues to inspire others in the athletic and disabled communities. In 2016, the New Zealand Olympic Committee announced the introduction of the "Neroli Fairhall Scholarship", which provides support to young disabled athletes pursuing their sporting dreams.

Fairhall's impact on the sport of archery is still felt today. She paved the way for other para-athletes to compete in the Olympics and Paralympics, and her determination and spirit continue to inspire people globally. In 2017, a mural of Fairhall was created in Christchurch to honor her legacy and contribution to the city. Additionally, the Neroli Fairhall Scholarship has supported young para-athletes in carrying on her pursuit of excellence in sports. Fairhall's commitment to environmentalism was also notable, and her work helped to promote sustainable practices in the Marlborough Sounds region where her yacht charter business was located. She was a true trailblazer and New Zealand icon, who will always be remembered for her contributions to archery, disability advocacy, and environmentalism.

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Peter Adams

Peter Adams (May 18, 1938 Taumarunui-December 13, 1999 Melbourne) also known as Peter John Adams was a New Zealand actor. His child is Aileen Adams.

Peter Adams had an illustrious career in the entertainment industry spanning for almost four decades. He was a trained actor and initially started his career performing in theater productions in Wellington. Later, he moved to Los Angeles, USA, where he worked in various TV series including Dallas, Prospects, and Star Trek: The Next Generation. Adams also appeared in numerous films such as The People That Time Forgot, The Terminator, Blind Justice, and RoboCop.

Throughout his career, Peter Adams was renowned for his versatility and portrayed diverse roles that showcased his acting range. His last work before his death was in the Australian TV series Stingers. Adams was highly respected in the acting fraternity and received numerous accolades and awards throughout his career.

Peter Adams was also known for his humanitarian work. He became a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations and traveled to various countries to help provide aid to those in need. He was passionate about using his platform as an actor to make a positive difference in the world. In addition to his work as an actor and humanitarian, Adams was also a talented musician. He played multiple instruments and even composed his own music. His legacy continues to inspire and impact the entertainment industry and beyond.

In addition to his successful career in acting, perseverance, and musical talent, Peter Adams was also known for his charitable work. He worked tirelessly to raise funds for the Cancer Research Foundation and helped to bring awareness to the issue of cancer. He was involved in several cancer awareness campaigns and fundraisers and was deeply committed to finding a cure for the disease.

Adams was also a devoted family man who loved spending time with his wife and children. He was married to Elizabeth Shepherd, who is also an actress, and the couple had one daughter named Aileen Adams. Despite his busy schedule and extensive travel, Adams always made time for his family and was a loving and supportive husband and father.

Peter Adams' contributions to the entertainment industry and his humanitarian work have left an indelible mark in the world. He was a true icon who will always be remembered for his talent, compassion, and dedication to making a positive impact on the world.

He died as a result of cancer.

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David Ballantyne

David Ballantyne (June 14, 1924 Auckland-April 5, 1986) was a New Zealand journalist, novelist and writer.

He grew up in Auckland and was educated at Sacred Heart College. During World War II, he served in the New Zealand Air Force. After the war, he worked as a journalist for various publications, including the New Zealand Herald and the Auckland Star. He also wrote several novels, including "The Cunninghams" and "The Mandarin". However, his most famous work is the novel "Sydney Bridge Upside Down", which was published in 1968 and has since become a classic of New Zealand literature. Ballantyne suffered from mental health issues throughout his life and spent time in psychiatric hospitals. He died in Auckland in 1986 at the age of 61.

Some sources suggest that Ballantyne's experiences in World War II contributed to his mental health issues. In addition to his work in journalism and fiction, he also wrote poetry and plays. Ballantyne's writing often explored themes of isolation, alienation, and identity. He has been compared to other New Zealand writers such as Janet Frame and Frank Sargeson, and his work has been praised for its innovate use of language and form. In 2014, his novel "Sydney Bridge Upside Down" was republished as part of the New Zealand Classics series, cementing its status as an important work of New Zealand literature.

Ballantyne was a reclusive figure and little is known about his personal life. However, he was married and had four children. Despite his struggles with mental illness, he remained a prolific writer throughout his life, publishing numerous articles, stories, and novels. In addition to his literary work, he was also a passionate advocate for the arts and wrote essays and reviews on art and culture. He was awarded the Katherine Mansfield Memorial Award in 1966 in recognition of his contribution to New Zealand literature. Today, David Ballantyne is remembered as one of New Zealand's most important writers, whose work continues to resonate with readers around the world.

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Jay Epae

Jay Epae (March 7, 1933 Manaia, Taranaki-September 8, 1994) also known as Epae, Jay was a New Zealand personality.

Genres: Pop music.

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Ellen Elizabeth Ferner

Ellen Elizabeth Ferner (September 13, 1869 Auckland-November 3, 1930 Remuera) was a New Zealand artist and photographer.

Ferner is best known for her portraits of the Māori people, which she often portrayed in traditional dress and settings. Her work was exhibited at the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts, and she was a member of the Auckland Society of Arts. In addition to her photography, Ferner was an accomplished painter and teacher, and she worked with other notable New Zealand artists of her time. She was married to the artist Samuel John Shrimpton. Despite her significant contributions to the arts in New Zealand, Ferner's work was largely forgotten after her death until a re-discovery in the 1980s brought renewed interest in her career.

Ferner was born Ellen Elizabeth Stoneham in Auckland, New Zealand, on September 13, 1869. She was the youngest of six children and grew up in an artistic family. Her father was a musician, and her sister was also a painter. Ferner's interest in art and photography began at a young age, and she received formal art training at the Wellington School of Design. After completing her studies, Ferner returned to Auckland and opened her own photography studio.

Ferner's work focused mainly on portraits of Māori people, and she often captured them in traditional dress and surroundings. Her photographs were highly regarded for their artistic merit and cultural significance, and they were frequently exhibited at the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts. Ferner was also an accomplished painter and taught art at various schools and institutions throughout her career.

In 1900, Ferner married the artist Samuel John Shrimpton, and the couple continued to work together on various artistic projects for the rest of their lives. Ferner's work was largely forgotten after her death in 1930, and it wasn't until the 1980s that her photographs gained renewed attention and interest. Today, her photographs are considered important depictions of Māori culture and continue to inspire artists and scholars alike.

Despite her significant contributions, Ellen Elizabeth Ferner encountered significant obstacles as a female artist in the male-dominated art world of her time. She was often overlooked and underappreciated, and it was not easy for her to obtain commissions or exhibitions. However, Ferner persisted, maintaining her passion for art and photography throughout her life.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Ferner was also a committed philanthropist. She was actively involved in a number of organizations and causes, including the Auckland Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Women's Christian Temperance Union. She also worked to promote education and literacy in her community.

Today, Ferner's legacy lives on through the many photographs and paintings that she created during her career. Her work captures a unique and important aspect of New Zealand's cultural heritage, and continues to inspire generations of artists and scholars.

James Wilson

James Wilson (December 6, 1865 Akaroa-April 14, 1927 Sydney) was a New Zealand politician and minister.

He served as a member of the New Zealand Parliament for several years, representing the Liberal Party. Wilson held several ministerial positions during his political career including Minister of Customs, Minister of Marine, and Minister of Labour. He was known for his commitment to workers' rights and was instrumental in the establishment of the Department of Labour in New Zealand. Wilson also played a key role in the development of New Zealand's fishing industry. After retiring from politics, he moved to Sydney, Australia where he died in 1927.

James Wilson was born in Akaroa, New Zealand on December 6, 1865. He grew up in a farming family and attended local schools before moving to London to further his education. Upon returning to New Zealand, Wilson became involved in politics and was first elected to the New Zealand Parliament in 1893. He went on to represent several constituencies during his career, including Hurunui, Tuapeka, and Buller.

As Minister of Customs, Wilson implemented several reforms which were designed to increase revenue for the government. He also worked to eliminate corruption in the department and improve working conditions for customs officials. As Minister of Marine, Wilson focused on improving safety standards for ships and seafarers. He was also an advocate for the creation of a national shipping fleet and the expansion of New Zealand's ports system.

Wilson's most lasting legacy, however, was his work as Minister of Labour. He was a strong advocate for workers' rights, and played a key role in the establishment of the Department of Labour in 1891. He also introduced legislation which established a minimum wage, set limits on the hours that women and children could work, and recognized the right of workers to form unions.

After retiring from politics, Wilson moved to Sydney, Australia where he worked as a company executive. He remained active in politics, however, and served as President of the New Zealand Society in Sydney. James Wilson died on April 14, 1927, in Sydney, at the age of 61. He was remembered as a tireless advocate for workers and as one of New Zealand's most dedicated public servants.

In addition to his political career, James Wilson also had a passion for fishing and was a skilled angler. He was instrumental in the development of New Zealand's commercial fishing industry and helped to establish the first fish hatchery in the country. Wilson also wrote several books on fishing and was considered an expert on the subject. In 1913, he was appointed as the Chairman of the New Zealand Fish Board, a position he held until 1921. Wilson was also a philanthropist and donated generously to a number of causes throughout his life, including education and healthcare. He was awarded the Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George in 1921 for his services to New Zealand. To this day, James Wilson is remembered as a visionary leader and a champion of workers' rights and social justice.

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Rita Angus

Rita Angus (March 12, 1908 Hastings-January 25, 1970 Wellington) was a New Zealand personality.

She was a prominent painter, best known for her portraits, landscapes and still life paintings which are celebrated for their precise lines, bold colors and simplicity. Angus was a key figure in the modernist movement in New Zealand art and her works have been exhibited extensively in various galleries and museums across the world. In addition to her contributions to the art world, she was also a vocal advocate for social and political causes and actively participated in various political movements throughout her life.

Despite facing several challenges in her personal life, such as struggling with mental illness and financial difficulties, Rita Angus continued to create groundbreaking works of art that have left a lasting impact on New Zealand's artistic legacy. Some of her most iconic paintings include "Cass", which depicts the Southern Alps, and "Self-Portrait", a strikingly powerful representation of the artist herself. In recognition of her contributions to the arts, several accolades and awards have been named after her, including the Rita Angus Residency, which provides opportunities for artists to work and live in Wellington, the city where she spent most of her life.

Rita Angus grew up in a strict Presbyterian household in the town of Napier. Despite her father's disapproval of her artistic pursuits, Angus attended the Canterbury College School of Art in Christchurch and later the Dunedin School of Art. Her early works were heavily influenced by European modernist styles, particularly the works of French artist Paul Gauguin.

In the 1930s, Angus became involved with left-wing political and intellectual circles in Wellington, and her art began to reflect her social and political concerns. During World War II, she worked as a graphic designer for the New Zealand government, creating propaganda posters and other materials.

After the war, Angus traveled to Europe, where she was exposed to the works of modernist artists such as Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. Her paintings from this period, such as 'Central Otago', combine her earlier interest in New Zealand landscapes with the flattened perspectives and bold colors of European modernism.

Despite struggling with mental illness throughout her life, Angus continued to paint and exhibit her works until her death in 1970. Today, she is widely regarded as one of New Zealand's most important modernist artists, and her works can be found in museums and private collections throughout the world.

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