Pathetic Facts

New Zealand music stars who deceased at age 63

Here are 20 famous musicians from New Zealand died at 63:

David Lange

David Lange (August 4, 1942 Otahuhu-August 13, 2005 Middlemore) was a New Zealand lawyer.

David Lange was not only a lawyer, but also a politician who served as the 32nd Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1984 to 1989. He was the youngest person to be appointed as Prime Minister of New Zealand in the 20th century at the age of 42. He is widely remembered for his leadership during a period of significant economic and political reform, including the implementation of the controversial anti-nuclear policy. Lange was a charismatic speaker and a strong advocate for social justice and environmental conservation. After his retirement from politics, Lange became a prominent commentator on political, economic and social issues.

During his tenure as Prime Minister, Lange also gained international attention for his role in the ANZUS crisis, when he refused to allow nuclear-armed ships in New Zealand ports. This decision made him a hero among anti-nuclear activists but also strained relations with the United States. Lange was also known for his sense of humor and quick wit, which he showcased in debates and speeches. In addition to his political career, Lange was a passionate cricket fan and player, and even represented New Zealand in a cricket match against England in 1970. He was awarded numerous honors throughout his life, including the Order of New Zealand in 2002. Lange's legacy continues to influence politics and policy in New Zealand to this day.

He died caused by renal failure.

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Barry Barclay

Barry Barclay (May 12, 1944 Masterton-February 19, 2008 New Zealand) a.k.a. Barry Ronald Barclay was a New Zealand writer.

Barry Barclay was more than just a writer - he was a filmmaker and a prominent figure in Māori cinema. He was best known for his documentary films which explored the unique cultural perspectives and experiences of New Zealand's indigenous Māori people. Some of his notable works include "The Neglected Miracle" and "Feathers of Peace". Barclay was also a founding member of the Māori film collective, Ngā Tamatoa, and played a significant role in promoting Māori representation in the film industry. Despite initially facing opposition from mainstream broadcasters, Barclay's work gained recognition and earned critical acclaim both in New Zealand and internationally.

Barclay's passion for bridging cultural gaps and preserving the traditions and identity of the Māori people was reflected in his work, which often centered on themes of cultural displacement, identity, and resistance. In addition to his filmmaking pursuits, Barclay was a staunch advocate for Māori language revitalization and education. He served as a trustee for Te Whare Wananga O Awanuiarangi and was also the director of the Māori unit at Television New Zealand. Barclay's contributions to the film industry and his advocacy for Māori representation and culture have had a lasting impact, paving the way for future generations of indigenous filmmakers and creatives.

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John Holland

John Holland (December 20, 1926-June 9, 1990) a.k.a. John MacFarlane Holland was a New Zealand personality.

He was best known for his work as a broadcaster, actor, author, and television presenter. Holland began his career as a radio announcer in New Zealand before moving to Australia in the 1950s to work as a television presenter. He later returned to New Zealand to work as a television producer for the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation.

Holland was a prolific writer and author of numerous books, including biographies of New Zealand politicians and historical figures. He was also a frequent contributor to various publications, including newspapers and magazines. Holland was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1986 for his services to broadcasting and literature.

In addition to his work in the media industry, Holland was also involved in politics, serving as a member of parliament for the National Party from 1969 to 1972. He was known for his strong conservative views, particularly on issues related to law and order. Holland passed away on June 9, 1990, at the age of 63.

Holland was born in Wellington, New Zealand on December 20, 1926. He attended Victoria University of Wellington where he earned a degree in English and worked as an announcer at the campus radio station. Holland then began his career in the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation as a radio announcer.

In the 1950s, Holland moved to Australia where he hosted a variety of television programs, including the popular game show "Name That Tune". He later returned to New Zealand to become a television producer for the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation. Throughout his career, Holland worked on a range of popular shows, including "Town and Around" and "Gallery".

Holland was also a published author, with several biographies and historical books to his name. His most notable works include biographies of former New Zealand Prime Ministers Robert Muldoon and Bill Rowling. Holland's political career saw him become a member of parliament for the National Party as well as a fierce advocate for strong law and order policies.

Holland's contributions to the broadcasting and literature industries were recognized when he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1986. He passed away on June 9, 1990, at the age of 63. Holland is remembered as an iconic figure in New Zealand's media industry and a celebrated author and politician.

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Matiu Rata

Matiu Rata (March 26, 1934 Te Hapua-July 25, 1997 New Zealand) was a New Zealand personality.

Matiu Rata was a prominent New Zealand politician, serving in the government for over a decade. He was the first Maori member of the New Zealand Parliament to serve as a cabinet minister. Rata was deeply committed to the rights of indigenous people, and worked tirelessly to advance Maori causes throughout his career. One of his most significant achievements was the establishment of the Waitangi Tribunal, which enabled Maori people to address grievances related to breaches of the Treaty of Waitangi. He was also a vocal advocate for land and fishing rights, and worked to promote economic and social development in Maori communities. Beyond politics, Rata was also a respected actor, writer and musician, and devoted himself to promoting Maori culture and heritage throughout New Zealand and beyond. His legacy continues to be celebrated and remembered by Maori communities throughout the country.

In addition to his achievements in politics, Matiu Rata was also a cultural figure and artist. He studied anthropology and Māori culture at Victoria University of Wellington, and worked as a broadcaster and journalist for the now-defunct Māori radio station Te Reo o Aotearoa in the 1960s. He wrote and performed on television and film, and was particularly known for his performance as the lead character in the film To Love a Māori, which was the first feature film to be produced in New Zealand by Māori filmmakers. Rata was also a skilled musician, playing the guitar and leading a Māori showband in the 1950s and 60s.

Throughout his career, Rata was committed to promoting Māori culture and advancing the rights of Māori people. He was a driving force behind the establishment of the Māori Women's Welfare League in the 1950s, and was a key figure in the Māori protest movement of the 1970s. Rata's legacy continues to inspire and influence Māori leaders and activists today, and his commitment to indigenous rights and cultural preservation has left a lasting impact on New Zealand society.

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Norman Jones

Norman Jones (August 15, 1923-April 5, 1987) was a New Zealand personality.

He was known for his work in radio and television, as well as for his contributions to the entertainment industry in New Zealand. Jones began his career as a radio announcer in 1941, and later worked as a television presenter and actor. He famously portrayed the character of "The Mayor" on New Zealand's longest-running soap opera, "Shortland Street", from 1985 until his death in 1987. Throughout his career, Jones became a beloved figure in New Zealand media and entertainment, known for his warmth, humor, and dedication to his craft. He was posthumously recognized for his contributions to New Zealand culture with a New Zealand Order of Merit award in 1997.

In addition to his work in media and entertainment, Norman Jones was also involved in the community. He served as the chairman of the New Zealand Muscular Dystrophy Association and was a prominent supporter of the Spina Bifida Foundation. Jones was also a member of the Order of the Golden Kowhai, an organization dedicated to promoting New Zealand culture and heritage. He was married to fellow television presenter, singer and actress Rowena Wallace, with whom he had two children. Jones passed away in 1987, at the age of 63, due to complications from a heart attack. He is remembered as an icon in New Zealand media, who brought joy and entertainment to millions of people throughout his career.

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Roy Jack

Roy Jack (January 12, 1914-December 24, 1977) was a New Zealand personality.

Roy Jack was born in Wellington, New Zealand, and started his career as a radio announcer in the 1930s. He quickly became one of the most famous broadcasters in the country and hosted his own radio show, "The Roy Jack Show," which ran for over 20 years.

In addition to his radio work, Jack was also a successful businessman and owned several companies, including a car dealership and a hotel. He was also a talented sportsman and represented New Zealand in both rugby and cricket.

Jack was known for his quick wit and sense of humor, and was a beloved figure in New Zealand. He passed away in 1977 at the age of 63, but his legacy continues to live on in the country's broadcasting industry.

Roy Jack was also a pioneer of television broadcasting in New Zealand, hosting his own TV show called "The Roy Jack Show" in the 1960s. He was also a writer and published several books, including a cookbook titled "Cooking with Roy Jack" and an autobiography called "That's Me!" He was actively involved in charity work and was a trustee of the New Zealand Society for the Intellectually Handicapped. In 1977, he was awarded the Queen's Service Medal for his services to broadcasting and the community. Today, the Roy Jack Memorial Lecture is held annually in his honor at the New Zealand Broadcasting School.

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J. T. Marryat Hornsby

J. T. Marryat Hornsby (March 13, 1857 Hobart-February 23, 1921 Carterton) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a politician, farmer, and businessman. Hornsby was elected to the New Zealand House of Representatives in 1893 as the member for Wairarapa and held the seat for six years. He was also a member of the Wairarapa County Council and served as its chairman for several years. Hornsby was a successful farmer and businessman, owning several properties in the Wairarapa region. He was known for his work in developing the wool industry and was a keen promoter of the region. In addition to his political and business interests, Hornsby was also involved in a number of community organizations, including the local fire brigade and the Masonic Lodge. He died in 1921 and was buried in the Carterton Cemetery.

Hornsby was born in Hobart, Tasmania, and came to New Zealand with his family in 1861. He attended school in Wellington before moving to the Wairarapa region to begin his farming career. Hornsby was an early adopter of new farming techniques and was interested in the latest developments in agricultural science. He was a member of the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand and was involved in organizing local agricultural shows.

Hornsby was a supporter of women's suffrage and voted in favor of the Electoral Bill that gave women in New Zealand the right to vote in 1893. He also introduced a bill to Parliament that would have created a system of state-run dairy factories, but it did not pass.

In addition to his political and business interests, Hornsby was an avid sportsman. He was a member of the Masterton Rifle Club and won several shooting competitions. He was also a keen horseman and owned several racehorses.

Hornsby's legacy in the Wairarapa region lives on through the J.T. Marryat Hornsby Trust, established in his honor to promote education, research, and development in the agricultural sector. The trust funds scholarships for students studying agriculture and land-based industries.

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William Herries

William Herries (April 19, 1859 London-February 22, 1923) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a notable businessman, politician, and philanthropist who made significant contributions to the economic and social development of New Zealand. After immigrating to the country in 1881, he established himself as a successful merchant and became involved in local politics, serving two terms as mayor of Auckland from 1901-1905. Herries was also a strong advocate for education and helped establish the University of Auckland, contributing both funding and personal time to the project. He was a generous benefactor to numerous charitable causes, and his legacy can still be seen today in the many public institutions that he helped establish. Despite his success, Herries remained humble and actively sought to improve the lives of those around him, making him a beloved figure in New Zealand's history.

In addition to his business and political accomplishments, William Herries was also a devoted family man. He married his wife Elizabeth in 1884, and together they had nine children. Herries was known for his strong work ethic and his commitment to his community. He was instrumental in establishing the Auckland Savings Bank and also served as chairman of the New Zealand Shipping Company. Herries was a great advocate for the arts and was a patron of both the Auckland Art Gallery and the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra. He was a member of the Order of St. Michael and St. George and was knighted in 1910 for his significant contributions to New Zealand society. Following his death in 1923, he was widely mourned and celebrated as one of New Zealand's most beloved and influential citizens.

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Fred Gerbic

Fred Gerbic (March 10, 1932-April 5, 1995) was a New Zealand personality.

He was best known for his work as a television presenter in the 1970s and 1980s, where he hosted several popular game shows and variety shows. Gerbic started his career as a radio DJ before moving to television. He was widely admired for his infectious personality, quick wit, and ability to put his guests at ease. Apart from his work in the entertainment industry, Gerbic was also involved in several charitable organizations, and was a staunch advocate for animal rights. He passed away in 1995 due to complications from cancer.

Gerbic was born in Wellington, New Zealand, to parents of Croatian descent. He attended Victoria University in Wellington before starting his career in broadcasting. Gerbic's first job was as a radio DJ for 2ZB radio in Wellington. He quickly became a popular radio personality and was eventually offered a job as a television presenter.

During his career, Gerbic hosted popular game shows such as "Wheel of Fortune" and "The $10,000 Pyramid" in the 1970s and 1980s. He was also the host of the variety show "Happen Inn," which was enormously popular and ran for several years.

Gerbic was a supporter of several charities and animal rights organizations. He was particularly passionate about animal welfare and was a vocal advocate for the rights of animals. In addition, he was also involved in various causes related to cancer research and treatment.

Gerbic's sudden death at the age of 63 was a shock to his fans and the entertainment industry. He was widely mourned, and his contributions to New Zealand's entertainment industry were recognized and celebrated.

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Arthur Faulkner

Arthur Faulkner (November 20, 1921 Grey Lynn-May 15, 1985) was a New Zealand personality.

He was well-known for his work as a television presenter, radio host, and sports commentator. Faulkner began his career in the 1940s as a radio announcer and eventually moved on to television, where he hosted popular programs such as "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Mastermind Show". He was also a passionate sports enthusiast and covered major sporting events, including rugby and cricket matches, throughout his career.

Faulkner was widely respected for his expertise and professionalism as a broadcaster, and he was awarded the Queen's Service Medal for his contributions to broadcasting and sports commentary. In addition to his broadcasting work, he was also involved in various community organizations and charities, including the New Zealand Cancer Society and the Order of St John.

Faulkner passed away in 1985 at the age of 63, but his contributions to New Zealand broadcasting and sports commentary continue to be remembered and celebrated to this day.

Faulkner was born in Grey Lynn, a suburb of Auckland, New Zealand, and attended Auckland Grammar School. He began his broadcasting career during World War II when he worked for the New Zealand Broadcasting Service as an announcer for the Servicemen's Request Program. After the war, he continued working for the NZBS and eventually moved on to television when it was introduced in New Zealand in 1960.

Faulkner's passion for sports led him to become one of New Zealand's most respected sports commentators. He covered rugby matches for over 20 years and was also a cricket commentator for the radio. He was known for his extensive knowledge of the games and his ability to provide insightful commentary. He was awarded the New Zealand Sports Journalist of the Year award in 1977 for his coverage of the Rugby World Cup.

In addition to his work in broadcasting, Faulkner was actively involved in charity work. He was a member of the Order of St John and served as chairman of the Auckland division. He was also involved in the New Zealand Cancer Society and helped to raise funds and awareness for cancer research.

Faulkner's impact on New Zealand broadcasting and sports commentary is still felt today. He was posthumously inducted into the New Zealand Television Hall of Fame in 2009 and his work is regularly referenced by contemporary broadcasters.

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Venn Young

Venn Young (February 16, 1929 New Zealand-January 14, 1993) was a New Zealand personality. He had one child, Jonathan Young.

Venn Young was a well-known New Zealand politician who served in the New Zealand Parliament from 1960 to 1972. He was a member of the National Party and held several portfolios during his time in Parliament, including Minister of Immigration and Minister of Labour.

After leaving politics, Venn Young became a successful businessman and was involved in various community organizations. He also wrote several books about New Zealand politics, including "Hobson's Choice: New Zealand's Identity in the Nuclear Age".

In addition to his professional achievements, Venn Young was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing and hunting. He was also known for his sense of humor and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Venn Young's legacy continues today through his son, Jonathan Young, who followed in his father's footsteps by entering politics and becoming a member of the New Zealand Parliament.

During his political career, Venn Young was a staunch supporter of New Zealand's alliance with the United States and was a strong advocate for the country's military involvement in the Vietnam War. He also played a key role in the implementation of the 1960 Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act, which reformed New Zealand's industrial relations system. In addition to his government positions, Venn Young was also a member of the New Zealand Olympic team in the 1950s as a marksman.

After leaving politics, Venn Young established his own successful import-export business, which specialized in the sale of New Zealand wool to Japan. He also became involved in a number of community organizations, including the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association, where he served as president.

Venn Young was known for his strong convictions and his willingness to stand up for what he believed in. He was awarded the Companion of Honour in the 1986 New Year Honours for his services to the community and to politics. Despite suffering from ill health in his later years, Venn Young remained an active and engaged member of his community until his death on January 14, 1993, at the age of 63.

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Jean McKenzie

Jean McKenzie (January 19, 1901-April 5, 1964) was a New Zealand personality.

Jean McKenzie was a prominent New Zealand actress, radio personality, and broadcaster. She began her acting career in the 1920s and worked in various theatrical productions in New Zealand and Australia. McKenzie's popularity rose in the 1930s when she started working in radio. She hosted several radio shows, including a popular program called "Aunt Daisy," which ran for more than 30 years.

Outside of her radio work, McKenzie also appeared in several films and television shows. She was known for her warm personality and distinct Kiwi accent, which made her a beloved figure among New Zealanders. McKenzie was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for her services to broadcasting in 1959.

Sadly, Jean McKenzie passed away in 1964 at the age of 63. However, her legacy as one of New Zealand's most influential and beloved broadcasters endures to this day.

Jean McKenzie was born in Dunedin, New Zealand, and grew up in a family of 12 children. She left school at the age of 14 and worked as a typist before pursuing a career in acting. McKenzie made her stage debut in 1921 in a production of "The Prodigal Daughter." She then went on to perform in various plays, including "The Rivals" and "The Importance of Being Earnest."

In addition to her radio and acting work, McKenzie was also involved in charity work. During World War II, she helped organize fundraising events for the war effort, and she was also involved in organizations supporting children's welfare.

McKenzie's legacy continues to be celebrated in New Zealand. The Jean McKenzie Heritage Scholarship was established in her honor to support students pursuing careers in broadcasting, and she was posthumously inducted into the New Zealand Radio Awards Hall of Fame in 2008.

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Charles Brasch

Charles Brasch (July 27, 1909 Dunedin-May 20, 1973) was a New Zealand personality.

Charles Brasch was a poet, editor, publisher and philanthropist, best known for his contribution to New Zealand's cultural scene. Born into a wealthy family, he studied at Oxford before returning home to become a literary figure. He founded the literary journal Landfall, which would become one of New Zealand's most important literary publications. Brasch was also a prolific poet, publishing several collections throughout his lifetime. In addition to his literary work, he was a supporter of the arts and made significant donations to various cultural institutions. Today, he is remembered as one of New Zealand's most influential literary figures.

Brasch's interest in the arts extended beyond literature to include the visual arts as well. He served as chairman of the Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council from 1963 to 1965, where he advocated for government funding for the arts. Brasch was also a collector of art and rare books, amassing a significant collection throughout his lifetime. In 1966, he donated his collection to the University of Otago, where it formed the basis of the Hocken Library's collection of rare books and manuscripts. Brasch's philanthropy extended beyond the arts, as he also supported social causes such as the fight against apartheid in South Africa. His legacy in New Zealand continues to be felt today, with the Charles Brasch Literary Arts Fellowship established in his honor to support New Zealand writers.

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David Monro

David Monro (March 27, 1813 Edinburgh-February 15, 1877 Nelson) was a New Zealand personality. He had one child, Charles John Monro.

David Monro was a Scottish-born New Zealand politician and runholder who played a significant role in the early political and social development of the country. He studied medicine in Edinburgh before moving to Nelson with his family in 1843. He quickly became involved in the community, serving as a magistrate and as the first chairman of the Nelson Provincial Council. Monro later went on to serve in the New Zealand Parliament as a representative for the City of Wellington. In addition, he was also one of the founding members of the New Zealand Institute, a scientific body dedicated to the advancement of knowledge in the country. As a runholder, Monro was heavily involved in the development of pastoral farming in New Zealand, and his sheep breeding work laid the foundation for the country's modern wool industry.

During his time in parliament, Monro was a strong advocate for the protection of Māori land rights and promoted policies aimed at improving the lives of Māori people. He was also a staunch supporter of the abolition of the death penalty. In 1873, Monro was appointed Speaker of the House, a position he held until his retirement from politics in 1875.

Aside from his political and agricultural pursuits, David Monro was also a passionate collector of art and artifacts. His extensive collection, which included items from all over the world, was donated to the people of Nelson and is now housed in the Nelson Provincial Museum.

David Monro died in Nelson in 1877 and was buried in the Wakapuaka Cemetery. He is remembered as a pioneering figure in New Zealand's early history, whose contributions to politics, agriculture, and culture helped shape the nation into what it is today.

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Arthur Rhodes

Arthur Rhodes (March 20, 1859 Timaru-December 26, 1922) also known as Mayor Arthur Edgar Gravenor Rhodes was a New Zealand lawyer.

He was the first mayor of the city of Timaru, serving from 1868-1877, and then again from 1890-1891. As a lawyer, he was highly respected and served as the Crown Solicitor for Timaru for many years. He was also active in local politics and was a member of the Canterbury Provincial Council as well as the New Zealand Legislative Council. In addition, Rhodes was a prolific writer and published several works on topics such as local history and genealogy. He was a founding member of the South Canterbury Historical Society and is remembered for his significant contributions to the development of Timaru and the wider South Canterbury region.

Rhodes' involvement and accomplishments extended beyond local politics and writing. He was actively engaged in sports, particularly cricket, and was a founding member of the South Canterbury Cricket Association. He also served as the first president of the Timaru Horticultural Society, which aimed to promote and develop horticulture in the region. Additionally, Rhodes was a member of the Timaru Volunteer Fire Brigade, joining in 1872 and serving as its captain in 1886-1887. Overall, Arthur Rhodes made vast contributions to his community and nation, leaving a lasting impact on the development of Timaru and the wider South Canterbury region.

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John Falloon

John Falloon (February 17, 1942 Masterton-October 4, 2005 Masterton) was a New Zealand personality.

Falloon served as a Member of Parliament for the National Party in New Zealand from 1981 until 1996. During his political career, he held several ministerial portfolios including Minister of Tourism, Minister of Broadcasting, and Minister of Internal Affairs. Following his retirement from politics, he was appointed as the New Zealand High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, a position he held from 1998 to 2001. Falloon was known for his dedication to public service and was well-respected by his colleagues and constituents. In addition to his political career, he was also actively involved in the community through various organizations and charitable work.

Prior to his political career, John Falloon worked in the banking industry. He also had a passion for farming and owned a sheep and beef farm in Masterton. Falloon was first elected to Parliament in 1981 as the Member for the seat of Pahiatua. He was re-elected for six consecutive terms until his retirement in 1996. During his time in Parliament, Falloon was instrumental in the National Party's rose to power and held various cabinet positions in the fourth and fifth National governments of New Zealand.

Falloon played a critical role in the conservation of New Zealand's native flora and fauna. He oversaw the development of the Department of Conservation and its establishment as a separate government department. Falloon was also a strong advocate for the country's tourism industry and was instrumental in the development of infrastructure and promotion of New Zealand as a tourist destination.

Apart from politics, Falloon served as a director for several organizations including the Stock Exchange, New Zealand Post, and Fonterra. In recognition of his services, he was appointed as the Speaker of the House of Representatives from 1996 to 1998. Falloon was greatly admired and respected for his hard work, integrity, and dedication to public service. He remains a significant figure in New Zealand politics and is fondly remembered by many.

He died caused by brain tumor.

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Fred Hollows

Fred Hollows (April 9, 1929 Dunedin-February 10, 1993 Sydney) a.k.a. Dr. Fred Hollows was a New Zealand physician, surgeon and ophthalmologist.

He spent a major part of his professional career in Australia, and during this time, he became known for his efforts in providing accessible eye health care to underprivileged communities across the world. As the founder of the Fred Hollows Foundation, he implemented a number of programs and projects aimed at reducing the impact of preventable eye diseases, particularly in developing countries. Throughout his lifetime, he was a vocal advocate for social justice and equity in healthcare, and his legacy continues to inspire others to this day.

Hollows was born into a working-class family in Dunedin, New Zealand, and he was the eldest of four children. After completing his medical degree from the University of Otago, he moved to the UK and worked as a registrar in ophthalmology at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London. In 1965, he moved to Australia and began working at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney.

Hollows was passionate about improving eye health and reducing the burden of preventable blindness globally. He traveled extensively to various countries, including Nepal, Vietnam, Eritrea, and the Philippines, to provide treatment and train local professionals. He believed in empowering communities to take ownership of their health and worked closely with local partners to build sustainable eye care systems.

Hollows was diagnosed with cancer in 1988 but continued to work until his death in 1993. In his honour, the Fred Hollows Foundation was established, and it carries on his work, providing eye care services, training healthcare professionals, and advocating for equitable access to healthcare. Today, his work has impacted the lives of millions of people across the world, and his legacy continues to inspire many to work towards a world where everyone has access to quality healthcare.

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Frank Norman Aplin

Frank Norman Aplin (September 17, 1901 Wellington-February 18, 1965) was a New Zealand police officer.

Aplin started his career with the Wellington Police Department in 1924 and later transferred to the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB). He quickly gained a reputation as an excellent detective and rose through the ranks to become the head of the CIB. Aplin played a key role in solving some of New Zealand's most high-profile cases, including the 1947 murder of James George Wilson, the 1949 murder of Edwin Harvey, and the 1954 "Lucas-Tooth" acid bath murders.

In addition to his work as a detective, Aplin was also an accomplished athlete. He competed in the 1928 and 1932 Summer Olympics as a middle-distance runner, and won the New Zealand national championship in the 880 yards in 1929 and 1930.

Following his retirement from the police force in 1956, Aplin served as a member of the New Zealand Olympic Committee and was awarded the Queen's Police Medal for distinguished service.

Aplin was also known for his contributions to the New Zealand community. He was involved in numerous charitable organizations and was an active member of the Rotary Club. He also served as a member of the Wellington City Council, where he worked to improve living conditions for low-income families.

Despite his many accomplishments, Aplin's legacy has been somewhat overshadowed by controversy surrounding his involvement in the 1951 waterfrong strike. Aplin was appointed head of the Special Branch, a group of police officers tasked with monitoring and suppressing the strike. He was accused of using excessive force against workers and was criticized for his handling of the situation.

Despite this controversy, Aplin is remembered as one of New Zealand's most celebrated detectives and athletes. His contributions to law enforcement and athletics have had a lasting impact on the country.

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Geoffrey Michael William Hodgkins

Geoffrey Michael William Hodgkins (May 1, 1902 Dunedin-October 1, 1965) was a New Zealand naturalist.

He is best known for his extensive work in the field of ornithology, particularly for his research on native New Zealand birds. In the 1920s, he worked as a museum taxidermist in Dunedin, where he began to develop his interest in avian biology.

Hodgkins also spent several years conducting fieldwork in remote parts of New Zealand, during which he made important observations and discoveries about the behavior and ecology of a number of bird species. His research on the endangered kakapo, a flightless, nocturnal parrot endemic to New Zealand, helped to draw attention to the plight of this rare species and contributed to ongoing conservation efforts.

In addition to his scientific work, Hodgkins was also an accomplished artist, and often produced detailed sketches and watercolors of the birds he studied. He also wrote several popular books on New Zealand's flora and fauna for a general audience.

Hodgkins' contributions to ornithology and ecology in New Zealand have been widely recognized, and he has been honored with a number of posthumous awards and accolades.

Hodgkins made significant contributions to the conservation of both wildlife and natural habitats, serving as an advocate for protection of New Zealand's unique biodiversity. He was a founding member of the New Zealand Ecological Society, and he championed efforts to establish protected areas for endangered species. Hodgkins also served as the president of the Ornithological Society of New Zealand, and he helped to establish a network of bird sanctuaries throughout the country. He was highly respected by his colleagues, and his legacy continues to resonate through the ongoing study of avian biology and ecology in New Zealand. In recognition of his lifelong dedication to the study and preservation of wildlife, the Geoffery Hodgkins Fellowship was established in his honor to support graduate research in ecology, conservation, and wildlife management.

Lloyd Phillips

Lloyd Phillips (December 14, 1949 South Africa-January 25, 2013 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Lloyd B. Phillips was a New Zealand film producer.

Phillips began his career in the film industry as a production assistant in South Africa in the 1970s. He later moved to Los Angeles and worked as a line producer on films such as "Brewster's Millions" and "The Incredible Shrinking Woman." Phillips eventually became a producer and worked on films such as "In the Name of the Father" and "The Legend of Zorro." He won an Academy Award in 1993 for producing the short film "The Mighty River." In addition to producing, Phillips also served as the president of production for Millennium Films. He was known for his ability to manage productions efficiently and for his strong relationships with directors and actors.

Phillips also produced the critically acclaimed film "12 Years a Slave," which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2014. He was a frequent collaborator of director Taylor Hackford and worked on several of his films, including "Dolores Claiborne" and "Proof of Life." In addition to his work in Hollywood, Phillips also served as the chairman of the New Zealand Film Commission from 2003 to 2008. He was known for his commitment to promoting and supporting the New Zealand film industry. Phillips was posthumously inducted into the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2013 for his contributions to the film industry. He was survived by his wife and two daughters.

He died in myocardial infarction.

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